FINAL ORAL EXAMINATION

SOCIAL TEACHINGS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

Instructions: There are (20) theses questions for you to study and be familiarized with each
document of the church.

1. Enumerate the social issues behind the Caritas et Veritate?

The encyclical addresses (Based on the ppt):
 economic inequality - There is a growing disparity between the rich and the poor, where
economic systems often prioritize profit over human dignity, leading to social injustice
and exploitation.

 Globalization - Globalization can lead to uneven development, where powerful nations

and corporations benefit at the expense of poorer countries, leading to increased
inequality and exploitation

 environmental degradation - The reckless exploitation of natural resources and

environmental neglect disproportionately affects the poor and threatens the planet's
sustainability.

 Moral Decline - moral challenges, advocating for an integral approach to

development that includes social, cultural, and spiritual well-being.

- Society is experiencing a decline in ethical values, where material wealth and

technological progress are often pursued at the expense of moral principles and the
common good,

ISSUES (based on the google):

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT IN OUR TIME
In my view, we really need a new approach to human development that respects human
dignity and rights. Although the current model has helped lift many people out of poverty, it has
also created new forms of inequality and instability. For instance, many individuals face job
insecurity and the erosion of social safety nets, which leaves them vulnerable. Additionally,
cultural relativism can undermine essential freedoms, such as the right to life and religious
expression. I believe we should embrace a more humanistic vision of development that
prioritizes the dignity of every person and promotes solidarity within communities. By doing
this, we can tackle the pressing issues we face today and work towards a more equitable and just
future for everyone.

FRATERNITY, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND CIVIL SOCIETY

- The main issue in this statement is the mistaken belief that people can be completely self-
sufficient and create their own lives and societies without considering moral values. This
viewpoint often leads to an emphasis on material wealth and social success, while
ignoring the importance of community and ethical responsibility. I think the text makes a
strong point about how, when economic actions are detached from justice and moral
principles, they can actually harm personal freedoms and fail to achieve true justice. It
really highlights the need for an economy that incorporates generosity, solidarity, and
justice, reminding us that economic activities should serve the common good instead of
just focusing on profit.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF PEOPLE RIGHTS AND DUTIES THE ENVIRONMENT

- The issue in this statement revolves around the misconception that individuals can be
entirely self-sufficient and shape their lives and societies without considering moral
values. I think this belief leads to a consumerist mindset that equates happiness with
material wealth, overlooking the crucial roles of community and ethical responsibility.
The text argues that when economic actions are disconnected from justice and moral
principles, they can create systems that undermine personal freedoms and fail to achieve
true justice. It emphasizes the need for an economy that incorporates generosity,
solidarity, and social justice, which is essential for promoting the common good and
fostering genuine human relationships.

THE COOPERATION OF THE HUMAN FAMILY

- The statement really addresses the tension between individual autonomy and societal
unity, which I find to be a significant issue. It explores concepts like isolation, poverty,
and the importance of authentic relationships. I think it does a great job discussing the
challenges that come with religious pluralism, economic development, and globalization,
highlighting the need for ethical frameworks to guide us in these areas. Ultimately, it
presents a nuanced view of human relationships and societal challenges, recognizing how
 complex it can be to balance individual rights with the common good. It makes me
realize that we need to honor personal freedoms while also fostering a sense of
community and shared responsibility.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF PEOPLES AND TECHNOLOGY
- While technology can be an incredibly powerful tool for improving our lives, it often
leads to a dehumanizing focus on material progress, overshadowing essential spiritual
and moral values. The ethical challenges that arise from advancements in technology,
particularly in areas like bioethics and social communications, are significant. I believe
it's crucial to emphasize human agency and moral responsibility in guiding technological
development to ensure that it truly serves the common good. Ultimately, we need to
navigate these advancements thoughtfully to create a future where technology enhances
rather than detracts from our humanity.

The encyclical:
 Teaches that justice must be applied to every aspect of economic activity
 Explains that religious fundamentalism as well as the exclusion of religion from society
are both obstacles to a just society
 Warns the technology should not drive our society – it should serve the common Good

2. What is Catholic Social Teaching?

- Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is a body of doctrine developed by the Catholic Church
that addresses social, economic, and political issues through the lens of faith and moral
principles. It emphasizes the dignity of the human person, the importance of community
and solidarity, and the necessity of justice in economic systems. CST advocates for an
economy that serves the common good rather than mere profit, highlighting the need for
ethical considerations in all economic activities. It recognizes that every economic
decision has moral implications and calls for a balance between market dynamics and
political responsibility to ensure social equity and promote human dignity. Ultimately,
CST seeks to guide individuals and societies toward a more just and humane world,
rooted in principles of charity, solidarity, and respect for human rights.

3. Discuss the document of Rerum Novarum by Pope Leo XIII.

- Rerum Novarum (On the Condition of Labor) is a papal encyclical from 1891 that
addresses the social and economic issues of the Industrial Revolution. It advocates for
workers' rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to form
 unions. The encyclical criticizes both unregulated capitalism and socialism, promoting a
balanced approach where the state has a role in regulating the economy to protect
workers' rights while also encouraging private property and individual initiative. Rerum
Novarum established the foundation for modern Catholic Social Teaching, emphasizing
the moral responsibility of individuals and society to ensure justice and equity in
economic systems.
- Rerum Novarum addressed the idea that workers and business owners must work
together and respect each other’s right.

ADDRESSED THE FOLLOWING ISSUES:

 The right of workers to dignity in the workplace
 Just pay for just work
 Reasonable hours (including time-off on Sundays and holidays)
 Safe working conditions and strict limits on child labor
 The right to join labor unions to negotiate fair pay and safe working conditions

Corporation and government must promote justice:

 Workers and business owners must strive for fair distribution of private property
 The wealthy have a moral obligation to share their material wealth to alleviate the lack of
material needs of others
 Government must serve the common good and make the meeting of basic human rights
their first priority

4. Expound the document of Dei Verbum.

- Dei Verbum (Word of God), the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation
promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1965, is a pivotal document from the Second Vatican
Council that fundamentally addresses the Catholic Church's understanding of divine
revelation, its sources, and its significance in the life of the Church. The document
articulates that revelation is God's self-communication to humanity, aiming to foster a
relationship between God and His creation, with Jesus Christ as the fullness of this
revelation; it asserts that both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition are essential for
understanding divine revelation, while establishing that the task of authentically
interpreting God's word belongs exclusively to the Church's teaching authority, which
serves as a custodian of divine truth; the document also encourages biblical scholarship
as a means to deepen understanding of Scripture within the life of the Church,
recognizing historical-critical methods as valuable tools for interpretation, provided they
are employed within a framework that respects both tradition and divine revelation.
5. Explain and cite a document. “Why does the church get caught up in political and
economic issues that others should be dealing with instead of doing the one thing the
Church is supposed to do, serve the spiritual dimension of life?”
- The Church engages in political and economic issues because of its commitment to
Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which emphasizes the importance of promoting social
justice and the common good. I believe that CST teaches us that faith should influence
every aspect of our lives, including politics and economics. The Church sees the
principles of the Gospel as essential for guiding societal structures and policies. For
example, some scholars argue that the Church should actively shape democratic
processes and tackle socio-economic challenges, suggesting that ignoring these areas
could lead to a crisis of faith and diminish the relevance of the Gospel in public life.
Additionally, CST acknowledges that markets can benefit society when they are directed
toward the common good, which means the Church's involvement is crucial to ensure
that economic systems prioritize justice and equality over mere profit. So, rather than
viewing this engagement as a distraction from its spiritual mission, it’s really an
extension of the Church's dedication to uphold human dignity and support marginalized
communities.

6. POV. “Is there a basic perspective or idea that runs through the documents of CST?”
- The central idea that runs through Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is the inherent dignity
of the human person, which I think is really important because it serves as the foundation
for all social principles and moral vision in society. This perspective emphasizes that
every individual is sacred and deserves respect, which supports the Church's commitment
to promoting justice, peace, and the common good. Some key themes in CST include the
Call to Family, Community, and Participation, which highlights how important social
structures are for human flourishing; Rights and Responsibilities, which points out that
human rights need to be protected alongside our duties to others; and the Preferential
Option for the Poor, which focuses on prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable in
society. I also find principles like Solidarity and Care for God's Creation significant
because they remind us of our interconnectedness and our responsibility to protect both
people and the environment. Overall, these themes guide the Church's engagement with
political and economic issues, showing how faith encompasses all aspects of life.

7. What do you mean by common good?

- The common good refers to the social conditions and resources that benefit everyone in a
community, allowing them to thrive and fully participate in society. It includes things like
 public safety, education, and justice, which are essential for overall well-being. This idea
has roots in ancient philosophy, especially in Aristotle's work, where he emphasized that
the common good is what benefits the community through collective action. Today, it
guides political and social engagement by promoting policies that prioritize the welfare of
all rather than just individual interests. In Catholic Social Teaching, pursuing the
common good is linked to respecting human dignity and actively participating in civic
life.

8. Discuss the Rerum Novarum of Pope Leo XIII.

- Rerum Novarum (On the Condition of Labor) is a papal encyclical from 1891 that
addresses the social and economic issues of the Industrial Revolution. It advocates for
workers' rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to form
unions. The encyclical criticizes both unregulated capitalism and socialism, promoting a
balanced approach where the state has a role in regulating the economy to protect
workers' rights while also encouraging private property and individual initiative. Rerum
Novarum established the foundation for modern Catholic Social Teaching, emphasizing
the moral responsibility of individuals and society to ensure justice and equity in
economic systems.
- Rerum Novarum addressed the idea that workers and business owners must work
together and respect each other’s right.
ADDRESSED THE FOLLOWING ISSUES:
 The right of workers to dignity in the workplace
 Just pay for just work
 Reasonable hours (including time-off on Sundays and holidays)
 Safe working conditions and strict limits on child labor
 The right to join labor unions to negotiate fair pay and safe working conditions

Corporation and government must promote justice:

 Workers and business owners must strive for fair distribution of private property
 The wealthy have a moral obligation to share their material wealth to alleviate the lack of
material needs of others
 Government must serve the common good and make the meeting of basic human rights
their first priority

9. Discuss the Quadragessimo Anno of Pope Pius XI. Cite the issues and solutions.
 - Quadragesimo Anno (The Reconstruction of the Social Order), an encyclical issued
by Pope Pius XI in 1931, addresses the social and economic challenges of the time,
particularly in light of the Great Depression and the rise of socialism, highlighting issues
such as the growing disparity between the rich and poor, the ethical shortcomings of
industrialization, and the failures of both capitalism and socialism to uphold human
dignity. To remedy these issues, Pius XI advocates for the principle of subsidiarity, which
emphasizes that social functions should be managed at the most local level possible;
promotes the formation of worker associations to empower laborers and protect their
rights; stresses the importance of prioritizing the common good over individual or
corporate interests; and calls for economic justice, ensuring fair wages for workers
sufficient to support their families. Through these solutions, Quadragesimo Anno seeks to
reconstruct society based on Christian values that foster social justice and solidarity
amidst economic turmoil.

ANOTHER INFO:
 Criticizes both capitalism and socialism
 Criticizes the growing gap between those who are rich and those who are poor
 Introduces the concept of solidarity
 States that government must serve the common good and make the meeting of basic
human rights their first priority

10. Discuss the Mater et Magistra of Pope John XXIII. Cite the issues and solutions.
- Mater et Magistra (Christianity and Social Progress), in English it is Mother and
Teacher, an encyclical issued by Pope John XXIII in 1961, addresses the pressing social
and economic challenges of the time, emphasizing the need to balance economic
development with social progress, ensuring that policies prioritize human welfare over
mere profit. The encyclical identifies key issues such as the necessity for just wages that
reflect workers' contributions and the recognition of workers as integral members of
society rather than mere economic units. To address these concerns, Pope John XXIII
advocates for fostering individual enterprise while cautioning against excessive state
interference, promoting equitable distribution of property and ownership in businesses to
enhance economic participation, and reaffirming that all economic activities should align
with principles of Christian brotherhood and social justice. Ultimately, Mater et Magistra
calls for a holistic approach to economic development that is accompanied by social
advancement, reinforcing the importance of human dignity and the common good in
navigating the complexities of modern society.
ANOTHER INFO:
  Expresses concern for workers and women
 Criticizes the gap between rich nation and poor nations
 Teaches that excessive spending on weapons threatens society

11. What are the social issues behind the Pacem et Terris of Pope John XXIII.
SOCIAL ISSUES:
 Warns against modern warfare, especially nuclear weapons
 Teaches that peace can be achieved only through a just social order
 Gives a detailed list of the human rights necessary for a just social order

GLOBAL ISSUES ADDRESSED:

 Nuclear Arms Race: Urged immediate disarmament to prevent catastrophe.
 Economic Inequality: Called for fair distribution of resources and opportunities.
 Racial Discrimination: Advocated for equality and the end of racial segregation.
 Political Freedom: Stressed the importance of democratic governance.

- In Pacem et Terris (Peace on Earth), Pope John XXIII addresses several pressing social
issues that arise in the context of a world grappling with the complexities of the Cold
War, nuclear threats, and social injustice. Key issues highlighted include the need for
universal human rights, emphasizing that all individuals possess inherent dignity and the
right to basic necessities such as food, shelter, education, and healthcare. The encyclical
also critiques the arms race and calls for disarmament, asserting that true peace cannot be
achieved through military might but rather through mutual trust and cooperation among
nations. Furthermore, it addresses economic disparities, advocating for fair wages and
just working conditions as essential to achieving social justice. To resolve these issues,
John XXIII proposes solutions such as fostering international cooperation to establish a
global authority capable of addressing worldwide challenges, promoting the common
good through ethical governance, and emphasizing the responsibilities that accompany
human rights. By advocating for a just social order rooted in truth and charity, Pacem et
Terris seeks to create a foundation for lasting peace and solidarity in an increasingly
interconnected world.

12. What are the key themes under the Gaudium et Spes of Pope Paul VI. Cite the issues
and solutions.
KEY THEMES:
1. The Dignity of the Human Person
2. The Community of Mankind
3. Human Activity Throughout the World
4. The Role of the Church in the Modern World
5. Marriage and Family
6. Social and Economic Life
7. Peace and the International Community
8. Eschatological Perspective
ISSUES:
SOLUTION:
 Solidarity
 Common Good
 Maintains that peace is not just the absence of war – it is the existence of justice
throughout society
 Explains that the church must serve the world and promote the common good
 Condemns the use of weapons of mass destruction

- Gaudium et Spes (The church in the modern world), the Pastoral Constitution on the
Church in the Modern World, promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1965, addresses several
key themes and social issues relevant to contemporary society. One significant theme is
the dignity of the human person, emphasizing that individuals are created in the image of
God and possess inherent worth, which must be respected in all social, economic, and
political contexts. The document also highlights the importance of marriage and family as
foundational units of society, advocating for their protection and support to foster deeper
humanity. Additionally, it addresses the proper development of culture, urging a balance
between technological advancement and ethical considerations to ensure that progress
serves human dignity rather than undermining it. Economic and social life is critiqued for
often prioritizing profit over people, leading to injustices; thus, Gaudium et Spes calls for
fair wages and just working conditions as essential components of a just society. To
promote peace and international cooperation, the document underscores the need for a
community of nations that works collaboratively to address global challenges. Solutions
proposed include fostering dialogue between the Church and modern society, promoting
social justice through active participation in community life, and encouraging individuals
to contribute to the common good as a manifestation of their faith. By addressing these
issues, Gaudium et Spes seeks to guide the Church's engagement with modernity while
affirming its commitment to human dignity and social responsibility.
13. Discuss the document of Populorum Progressio of Pope Paul VI. Cite the issues and
solutions.

ECONOMIC INEQUALITY
Issue: There is a vast economic disparity between wealthy and poor nations, leading to social
injustice and exploitation of poorer nations.
Cause: Unchecked capitalism, colonialism, and an international economic system that benefits
richer countries while marginalizing developing nations.
Action: Pope Paul VI calls for greater sharing of wealth and resources, fairer trade policies, and
international cooperation that prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable.

EXPLOITATION OF DEVEOPING NATIONS:

Issue: Developing countries are often exploited for their resources, labor, and markets by more
powerful industrialized nations. This exploitation perpetuates poverty and underdevelopment.
Cause: Structural imbalances in trade, lack of fair access to global markets, and insufficient
investment in the development of poorer nations.
Action: Development should be centered on human dignity, promoting education, healthcare,
cultural growth, and participation in political life.

LACK OF INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Issue: Development efforts are often focused solely on economic growth and material wealth,
ignoring the holistic needs of the human person (social, cultural, spiritual).
Cause: A materialistic view of development that prioritizes wealth over human dignity,
community, and social well-being.
Action: Reform of the international economic order to ensure fair trade, better access to markets
for developing countries, and equitable distribution of the benefits of economic progress.

POVERTY AND HUNGER

Issue: The persistence of extreme poverty and hunger in many parts of the world is seen as a
moral failing and an obstacle to peace.
Cause: Inequitable distribution of resources, poor governance, and failure to address root causes
of poverty.
Action: Implement policies that reduce inequality, support land reform, and invest in
infrastructure and education in developing nations.

GLOBAL PEACE
Issue: Economic injustice and poverty contribute to conflicts and threaten global peace.
Cause: Disparities in wealth and resources create social tensions and resentment, which can
escalate into violence and war.
Action: Nations must work towards policies that promote development and reduce the economic
causes of conflict, such as poverty and exploitation.

Populorum Progressio, an encyclical written by Pope Paul VI in 1967, addressed the need
for the development of peoples and called for an economy that serves all of humanity, not just
the few. The document denounced social inequalities that deny people their dignity and laid the
foundation for the vision that each person has the right to integral human development. It
recognized the limited resources of the Earth and that systems and structures of society should
work so that all can have access. Populorum Progressio profoundly shaped the work of Catholic
development agencies in putting global solidarity into action. Pope Francis later built upon its
principles in his encyclical Laudato Si', further deepening the Church's social teaching and
commitment to social justice.

14. Discuss the 1975 Evangelii Nuntiandi of Pope Paul VI. Cite the issues and solutions.
ISSUES:
 Secularism:
- Secularism is the principle of separating religion from the government and public
institutions. It ensures that religious beliefs do not influence laws, policies, and
governmental actions, promoting equality for people of all faiths and those with no
religious beliefs.
 Materialism:
- Materialism is the belief that physical possessions and money are the most important
things in life. It values material wealth and tangible objects over spiritual or intellectual
pursuits.
  Relativism:
- Relativism is the idea that there are no absolute truths or universal standards, and that
beliefs, values, and practices are relative to different cultures, societies, or individual
perspectives. What is considered right or wrong can vary depending on the context.
SOLUTIONS:
• Social Justice: Evangelii Nuntiandi connects evangelization with the promotion
of social justice. It asserts that evangelization should address the needs of the
poor, oppressed, and marginalized, and that the Church should be a force for
social change.
• Cultural Adaptation: The exhortation stresses the need for the Church to adapt
its message to different cultures without compromising the core teachings of the
Gospel. This concept of "inculturation" is presented as essential for effective
evangelization.
• Role of the Laity: Pope Paul VI emphasizes the role of laypeople in
evangelization, urging them to be active participants in spreading the Gospel in
their daily lives, workplaces, and communities.
• Challenges of Modern Society: The document acknowledges the challenges
posed by modern society, including the rise of atheism, secularism, and moral
relativism. It calls for a renewed effort to communicate the relevance of the
Gospel in a world that is often indifferent or hostile to religious beliefs.

Pope Paul VI's 1975 apostolic exhortation Evangelii Nuntiandi addresses the challenges
of evangelization in a rapidly changing modern world. It identifies issues such as secularism, a
decline in fervor for spreading the Gospel, and the need for a more integrated approach to
evangelization that includes social justice and human development. The document emphasizes
that evangelization must engage with people's concrete lives, advocating for a message that
encompasses justice, peace, and liberation. Solutions proposed include fostering a deeper
understanding of the Gospel's transformative power and encouraging active participation in
social issues as integral to the evangelizing mission.

15. What are the social issues under the 1981 Laborem Exercens of Pope Saint John Paul
II. Cite the issues and solutions.
In Laborem Exercens, Pope Saint John Paul II discusses important social issues related to
work, focusing on the dignity of labor and workers' rights. He addresses problems like worker
exploitation, unemployment, and the conflict between labor and capital. The encyclical
emphasizes that labor should take priority over capital, meaning that work must serve humanity.
To address these issues, it promotes worker solidarity, fair wages that support families, and the
right to form unions. It also calls for a just distribution of resources and attention to marginalized
workers, highlighting that work is crucial for human dignity and fulfillment.

16. Discuss the Centisimus Annus of Pope Saint John Paul II. Cite the issues and solutions.
In Centesimus Annus (1991), Pope Saint John Paul II addresses significant social issues
emerging after the Cold War, particularly the challenges posed by capitalism, individualism, and
materialism. He critiques the excesses of both capitalism and socialism, advocating for a
balanced approach that prioritizes human dignity and the common good. Key solutions include
promoting solidarity, which emphasizes collective responsibility for societal welfare, and
endorsing a free market economy that respects individual initiative while addressing basic human
needs through state intervention when necessary. The encyclical also highlights the importance
of family and cultural values in shaping a just society, integrating these concerns into broader
discussions of social justice and economic development.

17. Discuss the 2009 document of Caritas et Veritate of Pope Benedict XVI. Cite the issues
and solutions.
Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical Caritas in Veritate (2009) addresses pressing social
issues such as poverty, economic inequality, and the moral implications of globalization. It
critiques the technocratic models of development that prioritize profit over human dignity and
emphasizes the need for a development approach rooted in charity and truth. Solutions proposed
include fostering global solidarity, promoting ethical business practices, and ensuring that
economic systems serve the common good rather than individual interests. The encyclical calls
for a renewed commitment to justice, emphasizing that true development must be holistic,
integrating spiritual, social, and economic dimensions

18. What do Amoris et Laetitia say about family? Expound.

In Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis talks about how important family life is as a foundation
for both society and the Church. He addresses challenges that families face today, like economic
struggles, migration, and the decline of traditional values. The Pope emphasizes the need for
love, mutual support, and communication within families and encourages a compassionate
approach that welcomes all types of family situations. He suggests promoting family spirituality,
fostering open dialogue, and providing support for families in need. Ultimately, Pope Francis
reminds us that all families are called to grow in love and unity through Christ's example.
19. Discuss the Laudato Si’ of Pope Francis and its essential elements.
In Laudato Si', Pope Francis calls for urgent action to tackle the intertwined crises of
environmental degradation and social injustice, emphasizing that caring for creation is a moral
imperative rooted in faith. He advocates for an integral ecology that connects ecological health
with human dignity, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life. The encyclical stresses the
need for global dialogue and cooperation to promote sustainable practices that prioritize the
common good over individual interests. Pope Francis encourages individuals and communities to
undergo an "ecological conversion," recognizing that the well-being of the planet and humanity's
flourishing are deeply intertwined. Overall, he urges a transformative change that reflects a
commitment to both environmental stewardship and social equity.

20. Explain. “If the church is the people of God, how do we help the church?”
To help the Church, which is understood as the people of God, individuals can actively
engage in various supportive actions. Key ways include involvement in church activities, such as
attending services, participating in ministries, and volunteering for events, which fosters
community and strengthens relationships among members. As member of a Catholic youth
movement of our chapel, joining a prayer ministry has been a great way for me to deepen my
own spiritual connections while praying for our community members and their needs. And I
always try to participate in church-organized community clean-up days because I think it's
crucial for us as Christians to demonstrate our commitment to caring for God's creation.
Engaging in open dialogue is another key way I try to help, by attending discussion groups on
relevant social issues so we can encourage understanding and solidarity among our members. At
the end of the day, I believe that by actively participating in these kinds of initiatives, we're not
only helping the Church fulfill its mission, but also strengthening the bonds between all of us as
brothers and sisters in Christ.