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.

A Magnificat for Us

Prayer
Centering social justice through lifting up God and God’s goodness, this prayer invites us to be grateful for God’s work in our lives and pray for more just and equitable communities.

Ellie Hidalgo Keynote Reflection

Film Discussion Guide
This 2023 Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) keynote guide offers an opportunity to delve into the address of Ellie Hidalgo, co-director of Discerning Deacons. Hidalgo’s talk amplifies the...

Advent Journaling

Activity
Advent Journaling for Young People - Prepare the Way and celebrate Advent with daily journaling prompts. Reflect on the themes of hope, peace, love, and joy. This Advent resource was created for use...

Everyday People

Prayer
Everyday People Prayer centers on the goodness and mercy people can access and practice daily. This prayer won the Catholic Social Teaching Month prayer and poem competition in the Diocese of...

Christmas Carol

Book Discussion Guide
Hope for the Holidays is designed as a light-hearted and approachable tool for people to navigate their feelings of hopelessness by widening their vision towards the common good in society and the...

Tattoos on the Heart Excerpt

Activity
This text selection is meant to be read alongside Tattoos on the Heart. The Power of Boundless Compassion, written by Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.  The text is an excerpt from Chapter 3: “Compassion”....

Peace and Justice Trivia

Activity
This trivia game includes themes, places, and people whose lives and work are rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. The game can be played in pairs or small groups to engage students in our shared...

Celebrating the Joy of the Gospel

Prayer
Reflecting on the "The Joy of the Gospel" (Evangelii Gaudium), we recommit to upholding the dignity of those around us and recognize our agency as an opportunity to...

CRS Global Food Update Discussion Guide

Activity
In Summer 2023, CRS published a update on the impact of our global food crisis. Through the lens of the pastoral circle, the discussion guide walks participants through questions, prayer, and ideas...

Labor Day Reflection

Reflection
Reflect on the impact of Labor Day and learn more about labor and the history of workers' rights through Catholic Social Teaching.

Synod Reflection Guide

Reflection
Catholic Mobilizing Network assembled a handful of presenters in winter 2022 to discuss what restorative justice practices can inform the Synod on Synodality. The conversation offered a view of the...

Synodal Process and Inclusion

Take a more reflective look into the Synod on Synodality to prepare your heart in understanding issues and opportunities that face the synodal process in October 2023. Be more attentive to...