Option for the Poor
Poverty
Background:
“The Church’s love for the poor… is a part of her constant tradition. This love is inspired by the Gospel of the Beatitudes, of the poverty of Jesus, and of his concern for the poor. Love for the poor is even one of the motives for the duty of working so as to ‘be able to give to those in need’.” (CCC, no. 2444).
Action:
- Volunteer with CRS and Fair Trade (links below)
- Write your local Senator to share the Catholic perspective on issues related to poverty such as affordable housing and health care
- Volunteer at a local food bank
Links
USCCB: Poverty USA
Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities of Central Florida
Repeated Social Teaching:
While the common good embraces all, those who are weak, vulnerable, and most in need deserve preferential concern. A basic moral test for our society is how we treat the most vulnerable in our midst…This preferential option for the poor and vulnerable includes all who are marginalized in our nation and beyond – unborn children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and terminally ill, and victims of injustice or oppression. Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship 2007, 50.
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