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.

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Prayer

Prayer in Honor of Fr. Bill Ryan, S.J.

Father Bill Ryan, S.J., the first director of the Center of Concern, is celebrated in this prayer recalling his faith, wisdom, and the many contributions he made to solidarity, the common good and...

Fostering a Culture of Peace Through Dialogue

Teaching is a journey, like the journey toward Emmaus, and the spirituality of this vocation requires sensitivity and attention as teachers accompany their students toward knowledge and...
Prayer

Moving Through God’s World

As people of faith, we are called to reflect on why and how we travel. This prayer is meant to help us to do so as World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27.
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Calendar

Monthly Calendar: July 2017: Fostering a Culture of Peace: Kinship

This month’s calendar offers daily reflections and actions to celebrate EFJ’s theme for the month of July 2017: Fostering a Culture of Peace: Kinship.
Litany

Signs of Our Times: Responding to the Call to Do Justice

This litany calls to mind the many conflicts and injustices occurring in our world today and invites us to respond with mercy and action.
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Lectionary Reflection

Fourth Sunday of Advent [a] December 18, 2016

Fourth Sunday of Advent [a] December 18, 2016 ADD DISCRIPTION
Prayer

Prayer for the Inauguration (2017)

This prayer refers to our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution as we mark the transition of power in our country.
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Reflection

Monthly Calendar: January 2017: Creating Peace Anew

This month’s calendar offers daily reflections and actions to celebrate EFJ’s theme for the month of January 2017: Creating Peace Anew.
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Reflection

Creating the Common Good

Education for Justice’s theme for the coming months is introduced in this short reflection and prayer on creating the Common Good.
Film Discussion Guide

Zootopia

This film discussion guide offers a unique look at this popular animated film by connecting its themes to Catholic social tradition.  
Lectionary Reflection

Third Sunday of Lent [c] February 28, 2016

Third Sunday of Lent [c] February 28, 2016
Lectionary Reflection

Second Sunday of Lent [c] February 21, 2016

Second Sunday of Lent [c] February 21, 2016