Catholic Studies Commons^™

Fratelli Tutti: Pope Francis And The Catholic Response To Human Rights, Tiffany Hunsinger

Biennial Conference: The Social Practice of Human Rights

On October 4, 2020, Pope Francis issued a letter to the world entitled Fratelli Tutti, On Fraternity and Social Friendship.

The document served as a culmination of the Church’s response to the global pandemic, as well as the more considerable perils of throwaway culture. This presentation will explore the specific response of the Catholic Church as it attempts to counter destructive boundaries and structure of its institution.

Pope Francis continues a tradition in pastoral response to the “signs of the times.” However, can the Church respond effectively in this current world?

Or do the needed changes surpass the capability …

Pope Francis And Alternative Economic Visions, John Sniegocki

Biennial Conference: The Social Practice of Human Rights

Pope Francis has expressed deep concern about the injustices and ecological harms of the current global economic system: “[L]et us not be afraid to say it,” Francis proclaimed to a worldwide gathering of grassroots social movements in Bolivia. “We want change, real change, structural change. This system is by now intolerable.” In this paper I explore Francis’ multifaceted critiques of our current global economic system, including the empirical evidence that supports such critiques. I will both highlight continuities in the views of Francis and previous popes—especially Paul VI and John Paul II—and highlight several ways that Francis articulates important new …