Community and the Common Good

“The common good involves all members of society; no one is exempt from cooperating, according to each one’s possibilities, in attaining it and developing it.” ﹣Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, #167

Discover insightful Catholic Social Teaching (CST) resources on the common good at Education for Justice (EFJ). These resources are designed to help individuals, educators, and faith communities explore and apply this foundational principle of CST, which emphasizes the dignity of every person and the interconnectedness of humanity in building a just and compassionate society.

Hands forming a heart illustrate concept of the common good rooted in God's loveEFJ’s materials on the common good offer comprehensive educational tools and reflections that examine how justice, solidarity, and collective well-being are essential to human flourishing. From backgrounders explaining the theological and scriptural basis of the common good to practical resources that connect this principle to current social issues, EFJ provides a robust collection tailored to deepen understanding and inspire action.

Highlights include a thematic exploration of the common good, featuring key teachings from papal encyclicals and the Catechism, alongside discussion guides and scripture-based reflections. Additional resources, such as Fr. Fred Kammer’s insights on the role of community in achieving justice, and reflections on how women’s solidarity embodies CST values, further enrich the collection.

Whether you’re looking to integrate Catholic Social Teaching into your curriculum, facilitate parish discussions, or deepen your personal commitment to justice, EFJ’s resources on the common good provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Explore how you can promote human dignity and the well-being of all through a Catholic lens rooted in faith and action.

Upgrade Your Concept of God

Film Discussion Guide
This guide to the 2024 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) allows one to explore Sr. Peggy O’Neill’s keynote address, where she shares inspiring stories and offers encouragement to become...

Movie Review: Elemental

Film Discussion Guide
Elemental tells the story of a Pixar animated film set in a vibrant city where residents live together in fire, water, land, and air. The story follows Ember, a tough and fiery young woman, and...

Inauguration Prayer Service on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

Prayer Service
We offer an opportunity for prayer and reflection on the significance of Inauguration Day and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday, highlighting a call for peace, justice, and the...

Canticle of Zechariah: Advent Reflection (English & Spanish)

Reflection
This reflection uses the words of the Canticle of Zechariah and draws on photos and music to spread a message of hope and compassion in this Advent season. Prepare your heart for the Advent season...

Black Catholic History Month Prayer

Prayer
Prayer for Black Catholic History Month This prayer to Our Lady of Africa expresses gratitude for her guidance, especially for members of the African diaspora, during Black Catholic History Month....

Classroom Listening Circle Post Elections

Activity
Facilitate a co-created post-election Listening Circle to provide a respectful space for students to share feelings and perspectives. Through guided prompts, prayer, and consensus-building, students...

Called to Dismantle Polarization

Reflection
After elections, it's easy to fall into polarized camps, but this leads to division and distracts from the true Christian mission of compassion and unity. Pope Francis urges believers to...

Student Guide on Poverty and U.S. Elections

Activity
Those in poverty face not only a lack of basic necessities but also social exclusion, limited access to education, and vulnerability to climate change. Explore the intersection of economic justice,...

Caring for the Environment and Each Other

Film Discussion Guide
In the 2024 papal encyclical Laudate Deum, Pope Francis challenges us to heed both the "cry of the earth and the cry of the poor," urging reflection on the legacy we leave for future generations. A...

Student Guide on Inequality and United States Elections

Reflection
The crisis of inequality creates deep divisions between people and communities despite progress in reducing extreme poverty. Rising wealth inequality, especially impacting women, Indigenous peoples,...

Bulletin Insert: Inequality and United States Elections (Revised)

Bulletin Insert
This bulletin insert offers insights from Catholic Social Teaching on inequality and the elections. It includes recent statistics and reflections from Catholic Social Teaching. Additionally, we...

Local Elections and Catholic Social Teaching

Reflection
During election years we recognize that our attention often turns toward candidates on a national level, but local elections like city council and school board races can have a greater...