Session 5: Rights & Responsibilities

• Today we are going to look more closely at the Catholic social teaching “Rights and 

  Responsibilities.” Remember the social teaching of Rights and Responsibilities has to do

  with the idea that every human being has a right to the things that are required for basic 

   necessities of life, such as food, shelter and clothing. 

   

  Jesus is the Son of God, one of the three Persons in The Holy Trinity (one God). 

  Because we are each made in the image and likeness of God, when we help others, 

  we are helping Jesus, and reflecting his love through our actions. 

   

  First, read Luke 16: 19-31  

  
  

  After you read the Scripture passage above, watch this insightful reflection on the story 

  of The Rich Man and Lazarus.
  

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   Think about it: What did the Rich Man do wrong? What does this story teach us about 
  what God finds important? Do you think you have an obligation to help others?

   

  Next, read Matthew 25:31-40

   

  As Catholics we believe it is our responsibility to help others in need to the best of our 

  ability. We lean from the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus that God cares most about 

  how we treat each other. Jesus teaches that our salvation depends on it. What does Saint

  Mother Theresa say about helping others? Watch:  

   
  

  
  
  
  

  When our rights are protected, we often do not realize that we have them- 

  or that they are actually rights. How can you help help others? 

  
  

  The following animated story is really moving. Although it is published by a Mormon 

  YouTube Channel, the message applies to Catholic Faith Formation as well because 

  it reflects the ideas in Matthew 25:31-40. Watch: 

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

   Now share your thoughts about the Catholic Social Teaching "Rights and 

  Responsibilities" in this worksheet.