United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

Chapter 24. Life in Christ—Part Two • 337

morals, the authoritative voice of Christ is exercised by the pope and bishops who, as the successors of Peter and the Apostles, form the Magisterium. They are guided by the Holy Spirit, who abides with the Church to lead us into all truth. • “The Magisterium of the Pastors of the Church in moral matters is ordinarily exercised in catechesis and preaching, with the help of the works of theologians and spiritual authors” (CCC, no. 2033). • “Society ensures social justice by providing the conditions that allow associations and individuals to obtain their due” (CCC, no. 1943). Social justice deals with the essential needs of people who are called to live together in community with respect for each other’s dignity. These needs include food, clothing, shelter, and an income that sup ports the family. • “The principle of solidarity, also articulated in terms of ‘friendship’ or ‘social charity,’ is a direct demand of human and Christian broth erhood” (CCC, no. 1939). This involves a love for all peoples that transcends national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differ ences. It respects the needs of others and the common good in an interdependent world. MEDITATION The Story of America has been the story of long and difficult struggles to overcome the prejudices which excluded certain cat egories of people from a full share in the country’s life: first, the struggle against religious intolerance, then the struggle against racial discrimination and in favor of civil rights for everyone. Sadly, today a new class of people is being excluded. When the unborn child—“the stranger in the womb”—is declared beyond the protection of society, not only are America’s deepest tradi tions radically undermined and endangered, but a moral blight is brought upon society. I am also thinking of threats to the elderly, the severely handicapped and all those who do not seem to have any social usefulness. When innocent human beings are declared inconvenient or burdensome, and thus unworthy