CIBRIAN, SHIELLA R.
FCL
1. Rerum Novarum (1891)
Pope: Leo XIII
Background: This encyclical is often seen as the cornerstone of modern
Catholic Social Teaching. It was written in response to the industrial
revolution and the problems faced by workers, particularly concerning labor
rights, the condition of the working class, and the responsibility of
employers. Pope Leo XIII affirmed the right to private property while
advocating for social justice, the dignity of labor, and the need for the state
to protect workers' rights.
2. Quadragesimo Anno (1931)
Pope: Pius XI
Background: Issued on the 40th anniversary of Rerum Novarum, this
encyclical addressed the failures of laissez-faire capitalism and communism,
emphasizing the importance of social justice, the common good, and the role
of the state in regulating economic activity to ensure that social conditions
favor human dignity.
3. Mater et Magistra (1961)
Pope: John XXIII
Background: This encyclical highlighted the moral and social implications of
economic development and the need for equity and social justice in a
globalized world. It called for cooperation between different nations and
emphasized the responsibility of richer nations towards poorer ones.
4. Pacem in Terris (1963)
Pope: John XXIII
Background: Focused on peace and human rights, this encyclical addressed
the need for global peace through justice and the recognition of universal
human rights. It was groundbreaking as it was addressed not only to
Catholics but to "all men of good will."
5. Gaudium et Spes (1965)
Pope: Paul VI
Background: This Pastoral Constitution of the Second Vatican Council offered
insights into the Church's relationship with the modern world, emphasizing
the dignity of the human person, the importance of promoting the common
good, and the Church's role in social issues.
6. Octogesima Adveniens (1971)
Pope: Paul VI
Background: This apostolic letter addressed contemporary social issues,
calling for an analysis of social, political, and economic structures. It
encouraged active participation in societal governance and promoted
solidarity.
7. Laborem Exercens (1981)
Pope: John Paul II
Background: Focusing on the dignity of work, this encyclical reaffirmed the
rights of workers, the importance of labor as a means of personal fulfillment,
and the role of work in contributing to the common good.
8. Sollicitudo Rei Socialis (1987)
Pope: John Paul II
Background: This encyclical reflected on the challenges of economic
development and social justice in the context of both the Catholic teaching
and the global social situation. It stressed the importance of solidarity and
the interdependence of peoples.
9. Centesimus Annus (1991)
Pope: John Paul II
Background: Written on the 100th anniversary of Rerum Novarum, this
encyclical assessed the fall of communism and the rise of capitalism. It
supported the market economy while advocating for moral limits to
capitalism and the need to prioritize the common good.
10. Ecclesia in America (1999)
Pope: John Paul II
Background: This apostolic exhortation focused on the role of the Church in
the Americas, addressing issues such as poverty, migration, and the need for
evangelization, while emphasizing social justice as a means to combat
inequalities.
11. Caritas in Veritate (2009)
Pope: Benedict XVI
Background: This encyclical built upon earlier social teachings and addressed
the global economic crisis. It emphasized the need for ethical considerations
in economic practices and the importance of charity in promoting social
justice.
12. Laudato Si' (2015)
Pope: Francis
Background: Addressing environmental issues and the care for "our common
home," this encyclical underscores the interconnectedness of all creation and
the moral imperative to address climate change and ecological degradation,
emphasizing the impact on the poorest and most vulnerable.
13. Fratelli Tutti (2020)
Pope: Francis
Background: This encyclical calls for fraternity and social friendship among
all people, emphasizing the importance of community, solidarity, and
dialogue in overcoming global challenges, including social, economic, and
environmental issues.
