Catholic Social Teaching in Action

Living our faith through love, justice, and mercy

At Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop Parish, our faith doesn’t stop at the church doors — it moves into our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is the Church’s rich tradition of thought and action that helps us respond to the needs of the world through the Gospel lens.

🌏 What is Catholic Social Teaching?

Catholic Social Teaching is built on a foundation of Scripture, papal encyclicals, and centuries of lived faith. It calls us to live justly, love deeply, and serve humbly — in short, to put our faith into action.

🔑 Core Principles of CST

1. Life and Dignity of the Human Person

2. Call to Family, Community, and Participation

3. Rights and Responsibilities

4. Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

5. Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers

6. Solidarity

7. Care for God’s Creation

💒 Faith in Action – Where CST Comes Alive

🌿 Environment & Creation Care

• Parish clean-up days

• Tree planting with local schools

• Zero-waste practices at parish events

🫱🏽‍🫲🏼 Service to the Poor and Vulnerable

• St Vincent de Paul food bank support

• Winter clothing drives

• Visiting the elderly and isolated

🕊️ Justice and Peace

• Refugee and migrant support networks

• Participation in Caritas campaigns

• Hosting conversations around mental health, domestic violence, and social harmony

🎓 Education and Formation

• Catholic Social Teaching lessons in Sacramental and youth programmes

• Resources shared during Lent and Advent for family reflection

• Encouraging Catholic values in local school partnerships

📍Get Involved

Want to make a difference? Join one of our ministries, outreach groups, or speak to our parish office about how you can get involved in putting CST into practice right here in Rotorua.

 “Faith without works is dead.” (James 2:17)

Let’s continue to love, live, and lead in the spirit of Saint Mary MacKillop — not only in words, but in concrete actions of mercy and justice.