And the corrective measures needed require intelligent planning as well as good will. Education for justice is an integral part of Christian education. This education for justice demands a renewal of heart, a renewal based on the recognition of sin in its individual and social manifestations. It will also inculcate a truly and entirely human way of life in justice, love and simplicity. It will likewise awaken a critical sense, which will lead us to reflect on the society in which we live and on its values. It will make people ready to renounce these values when they cease to promote justice for all.
Catholics will also remember that
Even God in his providence, does not seek at the cost of freedom, to wipe out all evils which flow from abuse of man’s freedom. Subject to the requirements of public order, to the extent that these can with reasonable effectiveness be satisfied by lawful means, the usages of society are to be the usages of freedom in their full range, and this means that the freedom of man is to be respected, and curtailed only when and insofar as necessary.
While the Church thus asserts the value of freedom, it also asserts that it is generally the function of the well informed Christian conscience of the laity to see that the divine law is inscribed in the life of the earthly city.
Christian Hope
Christian hope looks forward to God’s mercy in this world, to the gift of Christ’s peace on earth. This peace, however, is not promised to us unconditionally; it is certainly not offered as a mere fruit of human progress. The future of this world is as uncertain as it is changing. The ultimate concern of Christians is for eternal life, but, eternal life begins in this world. Christians have a serious duty to bring the spirit of Christ to social life at every level, to bring mercy, justice, and peace, and they must give a reckoning to Christ who will judge all on the last day.
Conversion and Society
To change society for the better requires the profound spiritual and moral capacities of the human person. If we are to work intelligently for social change we have need for our own conversion. The emphasis on conversion of heart is not a substitute for bringing appropriate remedies to sinful institutions and living conditions which may be an inducement to sin. We have to work for the good and the just.
Without the help of grace, persons would not know how to discern the often narrow path between cowardice that gives in to evil, and the violence which under the illusion of fighting evil only makes it worse. This is the path of charity, that is, of the love of God and of neighbor. Charity is the greatest social commandment. It respects others and their rights.
Lord, grant our leaders health, peace, and stability as they exercise the authority that you have given them. Direct their thoughts and actions so they follow what is pleasing and acceptable in your sight, and that by exercising their powers in peace and justice they may find favor with you.
