Social Justice

"Catholic teaching calls us to serve those in need and to change the structures that deny people their dignity and rights as children of God. Service and action, charity and justice are complementary components of parish social ministry. Neither alone is sufficient; both are essential signs of the gospel at work. A parish serious about social ministry will offer opportunities to serve those in need and to advocate for justice and peace. These are not competing priorities, but two dimensions of the same fundamental mission to protect the life and dignity of the human person."
—Communities of Salt and Light

"See how a person is justified by works and not by faith alone"
—James 2:24

Social justice involves promoting a just society by challenging injustice and valuing diversity. It is based on a belief that all people share a common humanity and therefore have a right to equitable treatment, support for their human rights, and a fair allocation of community resources. The life and teachings of Jesus Christ call all of us, even the young to work for justice, peace, human rights, and development. Each of us must be a reflection of Jesus Christ in our world—to be his hands and voice, to share his spirit and word. Through faith-based programs coordinated by the National Catholic Committee for Girl Scouts and Camp Fire, young people are given opportunities to recognize Jesus' call and respond to the call to work for a more fair and just world.