Faith and Action
By Paul J. Thomas
Parish Social Ministry Director
Catholic Charities of Southeast Texas

In Catholic Social Teaching, Solidarity acknowledges that we are all one human family. Whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, or ideological differences; we are called to live a life that embraces diversity. Through the eyes of our faith, diversity is simply the divine paint brush of God’s creativity.

Too often, however, rather than seeing one another as relatives in the great family of God, we focus on our differences with a negative attitude. This can quickly turn an opportunity to learn and grow into friction and conflict.

We hear news everyday of countries in turmoil because this group over here doesn’t agree with another group over there. These stories make us wonder why it is so difficult for human beings to get along and work together. We talk about building the common good but perhaps we also need more common courtesy.

We observe the way people are willing to riot and kill because of ethnic, racial, and even religious differences. While it is important to celebrate one’s roots and cultural heritage, a life of faith ultimately calls us to go beyond these labels and identify with each other first and foremost as children of God.

The success of faith based Charity and Social Justice depends on our ability to put this idea into practice. For example, how can we serve the poor with dignity and respect if we are viewing their situation through a lens of suspicion and judgment? Are our minds already made up about a person as soon as they come through the door? The characteristics of our appearance will eventually disappear for all of us. Therefore, we must practice the skill to see within the heart of another human being.

The heart and soul of Catholic Social Teaching seeks to embrace, value, and emphasize the human person from within. When we acknowledge our common ancestry as children of God, the outward labels melt away and we begin to see each other as human and divine. When these principles take root, we are less likely to be swayed by external influences trying to divide one against another based on race, ethnicity, and nationality.

The reign of God is fashioned through the virtue of Solidarity. In caring and showing compassion for every person, the transforming love of God reaches into our social structures as well; changing them to better serve the needs of people everywhere.