Overview
This 13-session study and discussion guide provides a structured approach to understanding The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church (2004), highlighting the Church’s teachings on topics such as human dignity, the family, social justice, economic ethics, environmental responsibility, peace, and the role of the Church in society.
The initial aims of our effort are to
(1) familiarize participants with the Catholic doctrine of social justice,
(2) provide a foundation for St. Mary’s Social Advocacy ministry and individuals’ participation in the public square, and
(3) complement St. Mary’s Social Justice ministries, charitable activities and other courses.
Through the process, you are invited to view Catholic social doctrine not only as a guide to social justice but as a call to evangelization. This journey ultimately aims to build a “civilization of love,” where the Gospel’s principles shape a world of justice, peace, and compassion for all through policy, works and charity. During our final meeting we will also ask each person to write and share their personal reflections on building a community of love.
The meeting schedule is listed on the calendar section of this page. We will meet from 7-9 PM at St. Mary’s in the Forcucci Faith Formation Center (Lower Church). If you are unable to attend in person you can participate using the Zoom link.
In case of snow cancellation, we will still meet by Zoom only.
Resources & Cost
There is no cost to participate in this reading and discussion group. All materials may be accessed for free via the Internet through links provided in this study guide.
Participants may wish to purchase hard copies of the Compendium and the Catechism.
- The Compendium of Social Doctrine of the Church(CSDC) can be found
- For Free – on the Vatican website.
- For ~$35 on Amazon for the book or Kindle
- For ~$35 at your favorite local bookstore or bookshop.org
- For ~$35 on a Nook
- The Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2nd Edition, Revised can be found on-line at the Vatican website, at Amazon, and onmost e-readers.
- For Bible readings, we will use the Revised New American Bible translation – found on-line at USCCB. Other approved Catholic translations are fine.
- Papal encyclicals can be found at the Vatican website, Amazon and e-readers. A useful free website is alsowww.PapalEncyclicals.net
- USCCB social justice documents can be found at the USCCB website.
- The USCCB and the CT Catholic Conference establish and promote legislative policies that touch on social justice issues.
Our Ground Rules
- We recognize that every participant is at a different stage of their understanding of the social doctrine of the Catholic Church.
- We will listen and seek to understand other participants with patience.
- We will share with honesty and charity
- We understand the facilitators are not credentialed theologians and may not have answers to some of our questions.
- Facilitators may ask the group to table a discussion for further research or understanding.
- Current events and legislation may enter our conversation, yet our focus for this group is on understanding the social doctrine and principles, not politics.
Upcoming Events
Zoom Link
Use this link to join the discussion remotely.
Meeting ID: 889 1915 0500
Password: Doctrine