from independence, through interdependence, to solidarity

all of our catholic social teachings flesh out the love looks like in action. all of the teachings are interrelated too.

solidarity is a key teaching for us catholics. the common good, care, and community are foundational to understand solidarity.

from our shepherds:

Interdependence must be transformed into solidarity, based upon the principle  that the goods of creation are meant for all. That which human industry  produces through the processing of raw materials, with the contribution of  work, must serve equally for the good of all. (St. John Paul II, On Social Concern [Sollicitudo rei Socialis], no. 39)

We  have to move from our devotion to independence, through an understanding of  interdependence, to a commitment to human solidarity. That challenge must find  its realization in the kind of community we build among us. Love implies  concern for all – especially the poor – and a continued search for those social  and economic structures that permit everyone to share in a community that is a  part of a redeemed creation (Rom 8:21-23). (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Economic Justice for All, no. 365)

The solidarity which binds all men together as members of a common family makes  it impossible for wealthy nations to look with indifference upon the hunger,  misery and poverty of other nations whose citizens are unable to enjoy even  elementary human rights. The nations of the world are becoming more and more dependent  on one another and it will not be possible to preserve a lasting peace so long  as glaring economic and social imbalances persist. (St. John XXIII, On Christianity and Social Progress [Mater et Magistra], no. 157)

(from https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/solidarity )

from independence through interdependence to a commitment to human solidarity sounds like a lofty goal. yes– love is a lofty goal and comes through the Spirit’s guidance and help through grace.

in my next posts, i want to examine solidarity’s relationship to what is happening in social issues facing us in the usa today — erspecially the asian hate that has been in the news lately.

but today, let us pray for solidarity to be part of our being and actions:

Almighty and ever-living God,
empower your one human family to join hands
on our journey of faith.
Send us your spirit of hope,
so that we may work
to alleviate human suffering
and foster charity and justice
in our world.
Amen.

(from https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/prayer-for-solidarity )