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.

Prayer

Prayer for Juneteenth

This prayer commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free, almost two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is symbolic...
Video

Prayer for the Summer

As we move into the new summer season, we look to absorb God’s light just as we absorb the summer sun. We pray to grow, rest, and reflect in these summer months. Find the PDF version of this prayer...
Prayer

Buffalo: A Prayer in a Time of Racism and Gun Violence

This is a prayer to remember the lives of the people who died in the Buffalo mass shooting and for all people affected by the sins of racism and gun violence. Commemorate Black History Month in...
Reflection

Reflection: From Service to Kinship

Fr. Gregory Boyle has worked with young adults in the barrio of Los Angeles for over three decades. He founded Homeboy Industries, and he discusses the concept of kinship in much of his speaking and...
Prayer

Marian Prayer for Mother's Day

On Mother's Day, we pray to Mary, our universal mother, to watch over and protect all mothers. We pray for an end to danger, violence, and suffering so that all mothers have the freedom and ability...
Reflection

The Jesuit Border Podcast Study Guide

The Jesuit Border Podcast study guide provides questions for reflection before and after each episode as well as CST connections. Each episode features stories from the US/Mexico border. Season 2 of...
Video

Video Prayer: Prayer for Holy Thursday

On Holy Thursday, we are called to see the face of Christ in all people and to bend in respect before the dignity of the other, as Jesus bent to wash the feet of his Apostles. Access a handout with...
Reflection

Ash Wednesday Cycle C Reflection

This Ash Wednesday reflection is a part of the Ignatian Solidarity Network’s 2022 Lenten series. Questions are provided to prayerfully begin this Lenten journey of justice and peace.
Film Discussion Guide

Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am

Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am is a documentary about the Catholic writer’s life. Use this film discussion guide to accompany a viewing of the film. Commemorate Black History Month...
Reflection

CST and the Voting Rights Struggle (2022)

The dignity of the human person demands that all citizens have the opportunity to freely exercise their right to vote. This resource provides a brief history of voting rights in the United States and...
Activity

CST Valentines

These printable valentine cards are rooted in principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST). Share messages of love for justice and all of creation this Valentine's Day!
Activity

WebQuest: Black American Poets, Writers, and Painters

This activity invites students to learn about the contributions of Black poets, writers, and painters by researching answers to questions online. Commemorate Black History Month in your classroom,...