Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in Scripture and it provides us with guidance on how we can live out our faith as followers of Christ in our local, national and global community. As head of the church, the Pope guides us in how we can apply the scripture to our modern day lives and how the Church can respond to the challenges we face in our modern world. Pope Francis’ shared his own thoughts in his recent encyclicals Laudato Si’ (2015) and Fratelli Tutti (2020). We work closely with both CAFOD, ACN and Caritas in developing our knowledge and understanding of how we can best engage in CST.
Each of the principles is now rooted in the College’s rhythm of the year and has been blended with our new House point system.
The Common Good
We speak clearly and show respect and responsibility for our sisters and brothers who are in need. We are called to work for the good of each and all and to ensure that no one is left behind.
House Points:
- Being helpful to others
- Acting as a role model
- Encouraging peers to make positive choices
- Being helpful to our environment
- Kindness
Participation
All people have a right and a duty to participate and be supported in family life and society. We are all ‘Co Workers’ and through cooperation we can learn and grow closer to God.
House Points:
- Outstanding contribution to lessons
- Excellent in attainment/attitude to learning
- Teamwork
- Excellent commitment to co-curricular activities
- Leading prayer/liturgy
Subsidiarity
We respect the dignity of work and the rights of workers. We are called to empower communities, to let everyone have a say and we follow Jesus’ example of ensuring that the insights and perspectives of quieter voices are heard, so that a better world is achieved together.
House Points:
- Taking extra care to listen to the voices of those who are underrepresented in our communities
- Attending at an event designed to empower others
- Being accepting of opinions that are different from our own/respecting other people’s points of view
- Learning about working in a professional environment through work experience and/or volunteering
- Respecting Safe Spaces
Stewardship of God’s Creation
We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of God’s creation.
House Points:
- Keeping the College site clean and tidy
- Seeking opportunities to reduce, reuse, recycle
- Commitment to safe, sustainable travel
- Creating greener spaces around the college site
Human Dignity
We believe that we are beautifully made in the image and likeness of God and that each one of us is unique. Each and every human life is sacred and a gift from God that should be respected above all else.
House Points:
- Actively celebrating our diverse community (e.g. prayer, involvement in assembly)
- Learning from mistakes
- Celebrate/ display/ promote good work around college site/ website/ twitter as a more regular routine- through bulletin
- Respecting the views of all learners in the classroom
Preferential Option for the Poor
We put the needs of poor and vulnerable people first.
House Points:
- Showing compassion to others
- Excellent contribution to fundraising
- Being selfless
- Organising/Contribution to second hand uniform/book sales
Solidarity
We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic and ideological differences. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, wherever they may be. The pursuit of justice and peace is paramount.
House Points:
- Regular contribution to volunteering
- Joining together with others to bring about change
- Being SRRCC ready: every day on time, equipped to learn