We show to others the justice and charity of Christ by reaching out in the spirit of the Beatitudes to help others, to build up a better society in the local community, and to promote social justice and peace throughout the world.

We show the justice and charity of Christ to others by letting our Catholic faith, with its beautiful truths and attainable ideals, fill our lives with the spirit of the Gospel. If we really believe in Jesus Christ, we know that we must reshape our lives so that they are living examples of the Gospel in the spirit of the Beatitudes. This is the Christian life.

Christ said: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:7-10).

The Church urges us to serve God by serving our fellow man, after the example of our Lord. After He had washed the feet of His disciples, Jesus said to them: “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:12-15).

The Church calls upon Christians to live for others as Jesus lived and died for all. Such a life calls for sacrifice and fortitude, and it will help to make our Christian faith alive and real. The Church wishes us to make room in our hearts for all people, so that we might labor with all men to build up our society.

Society, in turn, is obligated to promote and safeguard social justice. To do so, society must provide the conditions and climate necessary for justice. Both individuals and groups of people should have access to the ways and means they need to obtain what is rightfully due them.

By friendship with all men, the People of God can become a sign and instrument of union with God and of the unity of all mankind. A life of service to others is the best way of showing God’s presence in the world and of letting people know that He loves all of them.