Call to Family Community and Participation
Family: Full human development takes place in relationship with others. The family is the first and fundamental unit of society and is a sanctuary for the creation and nurturing of children. Respect for the family should be reflected in every policy and program. It is important to uphold parents’ rights and responsibilities to care for their children, including the right to choose their children’s education. Respect for the family calls us to
defend and strengthen the family
oppose redefining or undermining marriage by permitting same-sex unions, or other
distortions of marriage.
Community and Participation: Every person and association has a right and a duty to participate actively in shaping society and to promote the well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.
larger institutions in society should not overwhelm or interfere with smaller or local institutions.
larger institutions have essential responsibilities when local institutions cannot adequately
protect human dignity, meet human needs, and advance the common good.