CST at The Becket School

CST at The Becket School

The Becket School is proud to promote Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which is embedded in our ethos, culture, and curriculum to ensure that students understand their role in the community and the broader world and the positive impact of their actions.  It helps the school understand the Church’s Mission and how they can make tangible connections to their education.  It adds value to a student’s education, supporting a holistic approach to developing the young person.

“Catholic social teaching is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world.” (CAFOD)

Principles of CST

At The Becket School we focus on 7 strands of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) as it holds a significant and valuable place in the educational philosophy of Catholic schools.

Human Dignity

We believe that every human person is made in the image and likeness of God and that we are loved infinitely by our Creator. God is present in every human person, regardless of religion, culture, nationality, orientation or economic standing. Each one of us is unique and beautiful. We are called to treat every person and every creature with loving respect

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.”
Jeremiah 1:5

Promoting Peace

Peace is a cornerstone of our faith. Christ, the Prince of Peace, sacrificed himself with love on the cross and showed us how to bring and share peace with one another. Today, our troubled world is still in need of peace. We strive to be peace makers and seek justice in our world today.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Matthew 5:9

Solidarity

We are brothers and sisters that belong to each other. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognise Christ in the poorest. Solidarity spurs us to stand side by side with our sisters and brothers, especially those living in poverty.

‘…We are one body in union with Christ, and we are all joined to each other as different parts of one body.’
Romans 12:5

The Common Good

The common good means that the fruits of the earth belong to everyone. Our whole human family should be considered when making decisions and no one should be excluded from the gifts of creation

‘All the believers continued together in close fellowship and shared their belongings with one another. They would sell their property and possessions, and distribute the money among all, according to what each one needed.’
Acts 2:44-45

Stewardship

The earth and all that is in it are gifts from God and should be cherished and protected. We have a responsibility to the Earth’s ecological diversity, beauty and life-sustaining properties. Together, we must steward it and take care of it for the benefit of future generations.

‘Then the Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and guard it.’
Genesis 2:15

Option for the Poor

The option for the poor reminds us of God’s preferential love for the poorest and most vulnerable people. God’s love is universal; he does not side with oppressors, but loves the humble.

‘The King will reply, ‘I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me!’
Matthew 25:40

Subsidiarity

Subsidiarity means that decisions are made at the most appropriate level so that all those affected can contribute and have a voice. Everyone has important ideas, they need to have a say and a chance to make a difference. We follow Jesus’ example by making sure the quieter voices are heard so that a better world can be achieved together.

“Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless. Speak for them and be a righteous judge. Protect the rights of the poor and needy.”
Proverbs 31:8-9