1. In the Beginning …
Catholic social teaching has its roots in Scripture, namely the Creation story in Genesis
Not a teaching on something that we do
But a recognition of who are as persons and what we are meant to become

2. What’s Special about Persons?
Persons are the only creatures that God made entirely out of love and for love
God did not make man as a means to an end
Created out of love, to share in the wonder of God’s creation

3. Made in God’s Image Intellect and free-will
Created in an image of a Triune God
God is social
Like God, we are not meant to be alone
Each person is meant to be in communion with others

4. Am I My Brother’s Keeper?
Cain and Abel story
Jealous of Abel, Cain kills him in anger
We truly are our brother’s keepers
Not enough to go through life simply taking care of ourselves
We are spiritually responsible for everyone else

5. Sacredness of All Life
Social teaching of the Catholic Church has at its basis the consistent ethic of life
Understanding that all people, created in the image and likeness of God, have inherent dignity that must always be respected

6. What the consistent ethic tells us …
In every situation, there is a right way to make a decision
Looking at our choices and options …
… always choose the one which respects the dignity of each person involved

7. Image of God, Redeemed by Christ
Every person, from the moment of conception to natural death, has inherent dignity and a life consistent with that dignity
Comes from God, not from any human quality or accomplishment