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At St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School, we believe that Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is at the heart of how we live out our faith in the world. CST provides a framework for understanding how we can care for others, protect the environment, and promote justice and peace. It teaches us to put our faith into action by addressing the needs of the poor, the marginalized, and those in need of care and support. By following the principles of CST, we aim to live the Gospel message and bring Christ’s love to the world around us.
Here are the key principles of Catholic Social Teaching, with scripture passages to help us understand how they guide us:
Every person is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances.
Scripture:
“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)
How We Live It:
We show respect for every person by celebrating diversity, helping those in need, and standing up for the rights of others.
We are all connected, and the well-being of each person is linked to the well-being of the whole community. We must work together for the good of everyone, particularly the poor and vulnerable.
Scripture:
“Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)
How We Live It:
We focus on caring for each other, whether it’s through helping at school or reaching out to those in need in our local and global community.
We are one human family, regardless of our differences. Solidarity calls us to stand with those who are suffering and to work for justice and peace.
Scripture:
“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it.” (1 Corinthians 12:26)
How We Live It:
By supporting global causes, helping those less fortunate, and showing empathy and kindness, we can build a stronger, more united world.
Decisions should be made as close to the people affected as possible. This means that larger organizations, such as governments or schools, should support smaller communities without taking away their ability to act on their own.
Scripture:
“For the body does not consist of one member but of many.” (1 Corinthians 12:14)
How We Live It:
We encourage students to take initiative, lead projects, and make decisions that impact their own lives and their community, while offering support when needed.
We are called to protect and care for the environment, as it is a gift from God. This means being responsible stewards of the earth and taking actions to care for the environment for future generations.
Scripture:
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1)
How We Live It:
Through recycling, conserving energy, planting trees, and learning about the environment, we can care for the world God has entrusted to us.
The Church calls us to prioritise the needs of the poor, the marginalised, and the vulnerable in society. We are called to be a voice for those who are often unheard.
Scripture:
“He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly.” (Luke 1:52)
How We Live It:
We are committed to supporting those in need, whether it’s through fundraising, charity work, or offering a helping hand to those who are struggling.
Peace is the fruit of justice, and it is essential for building a just society. We must work towards peace by promoting dialogue, understanding, and forgiveness.
Scripture:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
How We Live It:
We encourage students to resolve conflicts peacefully, forgive others, and promote kindness and respect in all their relationships.
Every person has the right to life, food, shelter, education, and employment. With these rights come responsibilities to respect the rights of others and contribute to the common good.
Scripture:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.” (Matthew 25:35)
How We Live It:
We teach our students about their rights and encourage them to use those rights responsibly, caring for others and standing up for justice in their school and beyond.
At St Cuthbert’s, we are committed to nurturing our students’ faith and values, ensuring that they grow to be compassionate, responsible, and loving members of the community. By incorporating Catholic Social Teaching into every part of our lives, we help our students not only understand the importance of justice and charity, but also take action to make the world a better place for everyone.
Ropery Lane, Chester-Le-Street
County Durham
DH3 3PH
Copyright © 2025 Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust
