Catholic Social Teaching at St Mary’s

HUMAN DIGNITY – THE COMMON GOOD – SUBSIDARITY – SOLIDARITY

At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Nottingham, Catholic Social Teaching is at the heart of who we are and what we do. It calls us to work together for the common good, to build a just and fair society, and to recognise the God-given dignity of every human life. We are inspired by the Gospel message to love and serve one another, especially those who are most in need.

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in the teachings of Jesus in the Scriptures, guided by the wisdom of the Church, and strengthened by the witness of ordinary people working for justice around the world. It is a compass for us at St Mary’s, helping us understand how to live out our faith every day – in our classrooms, our playground, our homes, and our wider community.

Some of the key principles of CST that inspire our life together at St Mary’s are:

Human Dignity: Pupils learn that every person is special and made in the image of God, so they must treat each other with respect and kindness.
The Common Good: Classes work together on projects to improve their classroom or school community. They learn about “true community” and how working together can benefit everyone.
Participation: Pupils are encouraged to participate in school life, share their talents, and feel they have a say in their school community.
Subsidiarity: This can be taught by giving pupils a say in their classroom decisions or by exploring how local communities can solve problems.
Stewardship: Lessons focus on caring for God’s creation by learning about environmental issues, recycling, and respecting all life.
Solidarity: Pupils are taught to stand with others, particularly those less fortunate, and understand that everyone is part of one global family.
Option for the Poor: Schools organise charitable activities like fundraising, coat swaps, or food drives, and children pray for those in need and consider the needs of the most vulnerable.

Our faith calls us to love God and love our neighbour in all circumstances. At St Mary’s we try to follow Jesus’ example by showing kindness, fairness, and compassion, and by helping to bring God’s love, peace, and justice into the world.

Catholic Social Teaching Prayers

For more about Catholic Social Teaching, please visit: CAFOD: Catholic Social Teaching