Relationships: Building a Just Society - Part 3

Deciding how to handle social matters:  Observe  -  Judge  -  Act 

There are three stages which should normally be followed in the reduction of social principles into practice. First, one reviews the concrete situation; secondly, one forms a judgment on it in the light of these same principles; thirdly, one decides what in the circumstances can and should be done to implement these principles. These are the three stages that are usually expressed in the three terms: look, judge, act.      (Christianity and Social Progress #236  Pope St. John XXIII-1961)

 

 

When Differences Arise...

238. Differences of opinion in the application of principles can sometimes arise even among sincere Catholics. When this happens, they should be careful not to lose their respect and esteem for each other. Instead, they should strive to find points of agreement for effective and suitable action, and not wear themselves out in interminable arguments, and, under pretext of the better or the best, omit to do the good that is possible and therefore obligatory.

239. In their economic and social activities, Catholics often come into contact with others who do not share their view of life. In such circumstances, they must, of course, bear themselves as Catholics and do nothing to compromise religion and morality. Yet at the same time they should show themselves animated by a spirit of understanding and unselfishness, ready to cooperate loyally in achieving objects which are good in themselves, or can be turned to good. Needless to say, when the Hierarchy has made a decision on any point Catholics are bound to obey their directives. The Church has the right and obligation not merely to guard ethical and religious principles, but also to declare its authoritative judgment in the matter of putting these principles into practice.

(Christianity and Social Progress #238 &239 Pope St. John XXIII-1961)

•       How have you learned to build relationship in your family?  At work?  In your fraternity?

•       Can you think of times when respect, love, empathy and compassion were in short supply on  your part?  How could you have done better?

Diane F. Menditto, OFS

Chair, National Formation Commission

Minister, Our Lady of the Angels Region