Catholic social teaching has been called "our best kept secret," "our buried treasure," and "an essential part of Catholic faith." Yet, in the words of the U.S. Catholic bishops: "Far too many Catholics are not familiar with the basic content of Catholic social teaching. We need to do more to share the social mission and message of our Church."
Rights and Responsibilities
Human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met. Every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to those things required for human decency – starting with food, shelter and clothing, employment, health care, and education. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities -- to one another, to our families, and to the larger society.