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Home > Themes of Catholic Social Teaching > Life & Work > Reflection

Reflection

A tea pluckerTaking Responsibility

Reflecting on Catholic Social Teaching to take responsibility for each other has inspired Justice and Peace Groups in Scotland to supply fairtrade products to parishes, in the knowledge of the fairer deal it brings for farmers in the developing world.

Family saying graceLife and Work – A Deacon’s View

Deacon Pat Taylor reflects on how entering into work for the good of the family has had a detrimental impact on family life, especially for women who can spend very little time with their children. To build a better community, Christians should therefore get involved with others and businesses should be encouraged to act equitably, realising happy workers are likely to be productive workers.

Volunteer with communityThoughts on living simply

Jim O’Keefe, a parish priest shares his thoughts on living simply, sustainably and in solidarity with one another. To livesimply is when we discover we are content with less, to live sustainably – realising we are sustained by God, and to live in solidarity with each other – by having a deep respect for our sisters and brothers throughout the world.

Hands holding newly grown tomatoes - an image of living simplyImportance of Simplicity

Living simply allows us to be closer to God as material possessions and lavish lifestyles often prevent this, inhibiting us to help others. By practising a life of simplicity encourages people to act in selflessness, justice and charity.

Creation untouchedUnbridled Consumerism

This reflection reminds us of the teachings of Centesimus Annus No. 36, outlining the flaws of consumerism – which does not sustain a healthy growth. We are reminded of the problem with wanting a style of life presumed better because it is directed towards having rather than being.

Trade union meetingRole of Government

It is easy to see how local and central government can control our lives. It is important for us to become involved and show interest in the political process not leaving responsibility to others.

Alfonso Coreia and the Nau Ner CommunityRole of Government in Timor-Leste

Various people from the community in Timor-Leste reflect on their hopes for Timor Leste, including their hopes for what government will do, opportunities for women, minimising poverty and preventing less tragedy which has previously been seen.

Prayers

Farmers in El-SalvadorValuable work

Farmers from El Salvador ask God to enrich the soil through their work, and as humble farmers they ask for strength. They also pray for God to protect them from those who are greedy, making commerce of the land, water and the earth.