Faith and Social Justice in the Teaching of Pope John Paul II

The nature of the relationship between Christian faith and social justice continues to challenge contemporary theological reflection. This study examines Pope John Paul II's understanding of the principle, first formulated in the 1971 Synod document Justice in the World, that action for social justice is an essential part of the gospel. It clearly demonstrates that John Paul's teaching on faith and social justice is rooted in his philosophical and theological anthropology, specifically his emphasis on «the person revealed in action». This study highlights the unique contribution of John Paul's vision of the person to Catholic social teaching in general and to the relationship between faith and social justice in particular.

Autorentext

The Author: Gerard Beigel is a priest of the Diocese of Oakland, California. He is currently working in Hispanic ministry in his diocese and teaches part-time at St. Patrick's seminary in Menlo Park. He received his S.T.D. in Moral Theology from the Catholic University of America.

Zusammenfassung
"By showing the consistency between the philosophical and theological vision of Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II, Gerard Beigel has made a significant contribution to modern efforts to link faith and social action, person and community, efficacious activity and mercy. Basing himself on the four key concepts of dignity, truth, love/mercy and freedom, Beigel indicates how the teaching of John Paul II points to the nature of true social concern. It must be a bilateral movement which mutually enhances the capacity for divine life in those who receive by giving and those who give by receiving. This is a competent and helpful study." (Rev. Francis Martin, John Paul II Institute for Studies in Marriage and Family, Washington, D.C.)
"Written with compelling clarity, the author has formulated distinctions and connections within the Pope's thought that present a tapestry whose threads are traced from original philosophical insights in the thought of Karol Wojtyla to their transformation into an impressive theology of social justice within a theology of salvation. Following an accurate presentation of Wojtyla's philosophical anthropology, the author brings to light the inner meanings and interconnections of key theological notions, such as 'communio personarum', the ethical and sacramental meanings of the theology of the body, the new anthropological and ecclesial horizon within which John Paul's social teaching is expressed. The work concludes with thoughtful reflection on several paths opened up by John Paul's theology." (Kenneth Schmitz, John Paul II Institute for Studies in Marriage and Family, Washington, D.C.)