Saint Gregory the Great
Background
"The development of economic activity and growth in production are meant to provide for the needs of human beings. Economic life is not meant solely to multiply goods produced and increase profit or power; it is ordered first of all to the service of persons, of the whole man, and of the entire human community. Economic activity is to be exercised within the limits of the moral order, in keeping with social justice so as to correspond to God's plan for man." (CCC, 2426)
Action
- Promote and advocate for social/ societal structures which work on behalf of all persons without bias to social status, race, etc...
- Support small businesses or programs which help empower low-income communities to contribute and participate in society
- Buy Fair Trade Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, and Handcrafts that support a sustainable development in impoverished countries
- Host a Fair Trade Café or Speaker at your parish or ministry
Links
More Than Just Shopping: USCCB Guide to Alternate Gift Giving
CRS Fair Trade
A Catholic Framework for Economic Life (Adobe® Reader Required)
Repeated Social Teaching:
Community and Participation - The mystery of the Trinity involves the relationship of complete love among three divine persons in one God. As people made in God’s image, we must model divine love and know that the person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society in economics and politics, in law and policy directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. Marriage and the family are the central social institutions that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.
