Catholic Social Teaching at BWH

The principles of Catholic Social Teaching underpin all we do at Blessed William Howard.  Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty.  Following in the footsteps of Christ, we hope to make present in our unjust and broken world, the justice, love and peace of God. (CAFOD).  

Catholic Social Teaching is based on the life and words of Jesus Christ, who came "to bring glad tidings to the poor...liberty to captives...recovery of sight to the poor" (Luke 4:18-19). It concerns what the Church has to say about social issues and the way in which Catholic faith should be lived out within society. These teachings are rooted in Scripture and especially in the teachings of Jesus found in the Gospels.

The Catholic Church has seven principles of social teaching that we share with our children through all that we do, through the curriculum, special events and activity and through our ordinary actions in school.  

Catholic Social Teaching is used in many subjects, history, geography and English, it is not taught just in RE.  Many of our assemblies feature Catholic Social Teaching, we discuss world events and how our faith challenges us to respond in a particular way.

We teach our children to be thoughtful about and challenging of the world's organisations and communities, we must work together to build a better world for the future.

• Human Dignity - ‘What makes me special?’ ‘What makes people special? ‘How should we treat each other?’  Opportunities for all to develop a relationship with God and to practise Jesus’ teachings.
• Family & Community - how can we ensure that all are treated equally and take part in society? Outstanding education for all pupils regardless of their background.
• Solidarity & the common good - Who are our leaders? How do we stand with others? How did Jesus show service and justice?  How do we help our neighbour?
• Rights and Responsibilities  - What is ‘true community’? The common good is reached when we work together to improve the wellbeing of people in our society and the wider world. How do we respect all in our community?
• Preferential option for the poor and sharing God's World, Protecting the Poor and Vulnerable-  how do we protect workers and ensure fair wages? How do ensure workers are respected and work for their vocation? How do pupils share at home and at school? What are the kinds of things that are shared? Should everyone get exactly the same? Should some people get more? Why? For example, families with more children might need more resources, or someone with a disability might need extra help
• Stewardship - Caring for God's World - How do I show respect for Creation? The earth and all life on it are part of God’s creation. We are called to respect this gift. We are responsible for taking care of the world we live in and for sharing all the wonders and resources the earth gives us.