Dignity of the Human Person

“A just society can become a reality only when it is based on the respect of the transcendent dignity of the human person.” –Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, #132

person holding baby's index finger illustrating the dignity of the human person

Photo by Aditya Romansa

Explore a wealth of resources that illuminate the cornerstone of Catholic Social Teaching: the dignity of the human person. Rooted in the belief that every individual is created in the image of God, this teaching emphasizes the inherent worth of every human being and calls for the promotion of justice, peace, and the defense of human rights.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Prayers and Reflections: Spiritual resources that deepen understanding of human dignity and its connection to peace, nonviolence, and disarmament.
  • Educational Materials: Lesson plans, classroom activities, and discussion guides that explore the moral imperative to respect life and promote justice.
  • Multimedia Content: Videos, infographics, and articles that bring Catholic Social Teaching on human dignity to life, highlighting its relevance in today’s world.
  • Advocacy Tools: Practical guides for advancing nonviolence, supporting disarmament, and fostering peace through the lens of human dignity.

These resources empower educators, faith leaders, and advocates to connect the principle of human dignity with actionable steps toward a more peaceful and just society. By integrating Catholic Social Teaching into learning and advocacy, these materials inspire solidarity and compassion in the face of injustice.

Bulletin Insert

Bulletin Insert: Poverty and U.S. Elections (revised)

Explore how those in poverty face not only a lack of basic necessities but also social exclusion, limited access to education, and vulnerability to climate change. This bulletin insert examines...
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Activity

Student Guide on Peace and Security and U.S. Elections

The results of the U.S. election season will reverberate far beyond our borders, as policy decisions made in Washington have a profound impact both domestically and globally. Explore the intersection...
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Prayer

Prayer for Hispanic Heritage Month

Praying for Hispanic Heritage Month, we reflect and give thanks for the rich heritage of those whose roots trace back to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.  

LGBTQIA Social Media Pack

Download these EFJ social media images—designed in 1080x1080 for Instagram and Facebook—to share on your social media feeds/bulletin during Pride month in June.

Eucharistic Congress Social Media Pack

Download these EFJ social media images—designed in 1080x1080 for Instagram and Facebook—to share on your social media feeds/bulletin leading up to the Eucharistic Congress happening in July 2024.
Film Discussion Guide

Origin Film Discussion

Origin is a unique adaptation of the themes of writer Isabelle Wilkerson’s best-selling book Caste: The Origin of our Discontents, as a film. Director Ava DuVernay intertwines stories from...
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Film Discussion Guide

Cabrini Discussion Guide

Cabrini brings to life the story of Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants and the first U.S. citizen to be canonized. The film premiered in Spring...
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Prayer

Our Bodies are Nature Prayer

Pray and celebrate all bodies that are made in the image and likeness of God.
Book Discussion Guide

"Water, Oil, Flame"

A discussion guide focused on Chapter 4 in Tattoos on the Heart that walks a student through the differences between Sacrament and sacrament in the context of the book.
Prayer Service

Justice Stations of the Cross

Prayer

Prayer to Reflect on the Great Migration

Commemorate Black History Month in your classroom, parish, or community with activities, reflections, and prayers that span from civil rights history to current events.
As this cross shines, backed by sunlight in the face of darkness in this cave remember to embrace your suffering. Just as Jesus did before he could reach his eternal light.
Prayer

Prayer: The Way Toward Easter

Praying toward Easter, we are mindful of global conflict, climate injustice, asylum seekers on the move, and walking with those who suffer. We look toward placing our hope in the Risen Christ.