Faith in a better world

Solidarity is about valuing our fellow human beings and respecting who they are as individuals.

“The many situations of inequality, poverty and injustice, are signs not only of a profound lack of fraternity, but also of the absence of a culture of solidarity. New ideologies, characterized by rampant individualism, egocentrism and materialistic consumerism, weaken social bonds, fuelling that “throw away” mentality which leads to contempt for, and the abandonment of, the weakest and those considered “useless”. In this way human coexistence increasingly tends to resemble a mere do ut des which is both pragmatic and selfish” Pope Francis

“We are all one family in the world. Building a community that empowers everyone to attain their full potential through each of us respecting each other’s dignity, rights and responsibilities makes the world a better place to live” Sollicitudo rei socialis – ‘On Social Concern’ (1987)

Questions to explore

What has struck me in what I have just heard?

Is there one idea I would like to share or to explore further?

What examples of solidarity can I observe among the young people I work with?

How can they be helped to develop their awareness of their capacity and calling to solidarity?

How can we develop a culture of solidarity in the Church and in society?

Does it illuminate the story of Jesus to understand his ministry in terms of solidarity?

Consider the Lord’s Prayer as a text about solidarity: what does it ask for? What is the vision of the world it embraces?

Questions to explore

Your Catholic Legacy