Catholic Social Teaching Quiz

Origin and Historical Context

• The word 'encyclical' originates from the Greek term "enkýklios," meaning "circular" or "general" communication.
• The first modern social encyclical, "Rerum Novarum," was issued by Pope Leo XIII in 1891.

Key Principles of Rerum Novarum

• Pope Leo XIII emphasized the principle of "the dignity of labor," highlighting the moral rights of workers and the importance of fair wages.
• The encyclical addressed the conditions of the working class in the context of the Industrial Revolution.

Development of Social Encyclicals

• Social Encyclicals began to develop in the 19th century, addressing social justice and human rights issues.

Other Names and Key Teachings

• The encyclical "Capital and Labour" is an alternative title for Rerum Novarum.
• "Catholic Social Teaching is about being relational" signifies a focus on the interconnectedness of human relationships, particularly within society and communities.

Significance of Rerum Novarum

• Rerum Novarum is significant as it laid the groundwork for modern Catholic social teaching and inspired subsequent encyclicals that tackled social issues.

Key Principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST)

• Key principles of CST include the dignity of the human person, the common good, subsidiarity, solidarity, and the option for the poor.

Foundation of Catholic Social Mission

• The foundation for the Catholic Social Mission is built on the principles of human dignity and social justice.

Key Figure and Methodology

• Cardinal Joseph Cardijn is recognized as a key figure associated with the methods of Catholic Social Teaching.
• The 'See-Judge-Act' method proposed by Cardijn is used for analyzing social issues and taking informed action based on that analysis.

Primary Focus of Catholic Social Teaching

• The primary focus of Catholic Social Teaching is the promotion of social justice and the well-being of all individuals within society.