Who wrote the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church?
While the Compendium itself was published by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, it is important to note that it reflects the collective wisdom and teachings of the Catholic Church over the centuries.
The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church is a comprehensive document that serves as a summary of the Catholic Church's teachings on social issues and principles.
It was published in 2004 by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, an office of the Roman Curia responsible for promoting justice and peace in society. The Compendium draws upon the rich tradition of Catholic social thought and presents key themes and principles that underpin the Church's teachings on social justice, human rights, and the common good.
While the Compendium itself was published by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, it is important to note that it reflects the collective wisdom and teachings of the Catholic Church over the centuries.
The document is not the work of a single individual but rather a collaborative effort that draws upon the contributions of multiple popes, theologians, and scholars who have shaped the Church's social teachings.
At the heart of the Compendium is the belief that the Church has a duty to engage with the social, political, and economic challenges of the modern world and to advocate for justice, solidarity, and respect for human dignity.
The document addresses a wide range of issues, including poverty, human rights, the environment, labor relations, and the role of government in promoting the common good. It provides a framework for understanding and addressing these issues from a Christian perspective, grounded in the teachings of the Gospel and the social encyclicals of the popes.
One of the key themes of the Compendium is the principle of the common good, which emphasizes the importance of promoting the well-being of all members of society and advancing the dignity of every person.
According to the document, the common good is more than just the sum of individual interests; it requires a commitment to solidarity, justice, and the protection of the most vulnerable members of society. The Compendium calls on individuals, communities, and governments to work together to create a society that upholds the common good and promotes the flourishing of all its members.
Another important theme of the Compendium is the concept of subsidiarity, which holds that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, with higher authorities intervening only when necessary. This principle reflects the Church's belief in the dignity and autonomy of individuals and communities and calls for a more decentralized approach to governance and social organization.
By addressing key themes such as the common good, solidarity, subsidiarity, and human dignity, the Compendium provides a framework for understanding and promoting social justice from a Christian perspective. It serves as a valuable resource for individuals, communities, and policymakers seeking to create a more just and humane society in accordance with the teachings of the Gospel.