Social Justice
Teachings, Documents, and more

Introduction

Hill Connections presents a six-part introduction to the broad array -- in religious, political, and business realms -- of social justice traditions, documents, principles, conventions, groups, and codes of conduct that shape efforts towards a just, sustainable, and peaceful world. The groupings are:

Roman Catholic
Other Christian Traditions
Other Religions
Interfaith Groups
United Nations
Business-related

There are documents and principles that are not included due to space limitations; other documents, such as the Earth Charter, an inspiring document, do not fit within the above categories. Thus, this sub-section, albeit limited, is a broad, respectful introduction to various faith traditions, interfaith groups, business and global bodies -- that share common values, such as social justice, community, spirituality, compassion, healing, and solidarity. (Note: Since Hill Connections flows out of an extensive Roman Catholic social justice tradition, it is given special emphasis -- Key Themes, Papal Documents, Episcopal Documents, and Counciliar/Synodal Documents.)

You will observe growths in understanding over periods of time and across various traditions, global bodies, and business-related entities. You may not agree with all that is presented; additionally, sections of documents are controversial, such as the "just war theory" in the Catholic tradition.

While there are differences -- in spiritualities, perspectives, focus, emphasis, ethics, and philosophies -- there is significant common ground. Hopefully, differences generate respectful dialogue.

This Hill Connections section is a work in progress. Feedback and suggestions are welcome.
Look for continual changes and additions.

Gratitude to St. Joseph Foundation for Charitable Purposes for financial support for this addition
and to the Institute for Peace and Justice for use of their Pope Paul VIth graphic.

Section modified February 15, 2008.