"You have already been told what is right

and what Yahweh wants of you.

Only this, to act justly, to love tenderly,

and to walk humbly with God."

— Micah 6:8

Why Social Justice?

In each century, our world has been a place of conflict and war, of starvation in the midst of plenty, of riches gained by some at the expense of others. It was that way when Jesus walked on earth, and it is that way today.

However, in every era, there is also a strong force for the good and the just. Jesus, the Light of the World, is our best example. Over the centuries since Jesus' death and resurrection, there have always been people who followed his teaching to bring the light of love, fairness and compassion to a suffering world. Indeed, in looking back at history, we can see that many times the only hope was the love and compassion that good Christians and other caring people shared and showed. We need to continue the work of this absolutely necessary tradition.

Why Social Justice for Kids?
Each generation of Christians is called to spread hope through loving concern and to work for justice for those who are treated unfairly. When we bring our children to be baptized, we are passing on this heritage, making us responsible for guiding and teaching them how to act.

Today's global economy touches people in even the most remote regions of the world. While this may bring improvements, it often brings rampant injustices too. A common example is the production of goods for one country through the use of child labor in another. Pollution and the abuse of natural resources are beginning to have increasing and dire repercussions on people in a variety of places.

The need for compassion and social justice, as well as awakening our children to that need, has become urgent. We must give them the tools to answer Jesus' call. Indeed, to raise children to act with loving concern, justice, and fairness is our greatest hope.

(These questions and answers about social justice are paraphrased from Anne's book, To Love Tenderly: Teaching Compassion and Justice Through Stories and Activities.)

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Curriculum Suggestions:

The Principles of Catholic Social Teaching for Kids

-- Ages 7 and up
-- Ages 3 and 6

Catholic Social Teaching Curriculum (ages 4-8)

Citizenship and Children: Becoming a Faithful Citizen

Growing Up Catholic in the Midst of Affluence

Stories for Just Kids

Anne's Social Justice Curriculum in Action: Classroom Experiences
Maryknoll Classroom Curriculum on Mission and Social Justice