Pope Francis’ address to US Congress on 24 September 2015 covered a broad range of social justice issues from migration to interfaith dialogue to peace building and action against climate change. In doing so he drew on a range of Catholic Social Teaching principles.
For Reflection:
- How do you see the links between freedom, the common good, subsidiarity, and solidarity?
- What are some ways in which love of the common good could be better expressed in the political life of your country?
For Reflection:
The political community is one of the great themes in Catholic Social Teaching. As Pope Francis’ address to US Congress explains, the very purpose of the state is to foster, organise and defend the common good.
- Would you consider entering political life in order to promote the common good?
For Reflection
Pope Francis’ address to US Congress highlighted the importance of religious liberty, and the positive role of the voice of faith in society. But it also acknowledges the reality of violence perpetrated in the name of religion, of different forms of religious fundamentalism, and the simplistic reductionism “which sees only good or evil.”
- Can you think of examples of how the voice of faith is playing a positive role in your society?
For Reflection:
Pope Francis urged members of Congress to draw on the Golden Rule – treat others as you would have them treat you – in responding to the global refugee crisis and also to the movement of people from Latin and Central America into the USA seeking safety and decent life. As the son of immigrants, he appealed to the people of the USA not to forget their own history of migration. He also recalled the violent and unjust treatment of the First Peoples in this process and urged that such “sins and errors” not be repeated.
- How well is your community responding to the global refugee crisis?
For Reflection:
- Do you find it difficult to believe that people who have committed serious crimes can change?
For Reflection:
Pope Francis’ address to US Congress called for a continuing effort to address poverty and hunger globally. He reiterated many of the concerns he expressed in the encyclical Laudato Si’, especially the need for sustainable development and action on climate change.
Who are the people in your community who are inspired by their faith to take action for social justice and to care of the earth?
How are poverty and care for creation intertwined in your country?