Exploring Catholic Social Teaching

LESSON PLAN
C. Next explain the following to your students in a mini-lecture:
The principle of solidarity (or “social charity” or “friendship”) is a direct demand of human and
Christian brotherhood. We all have the same origin. We are all made in the image and likeness of
God. This origin brings us together as a society of people sealed by the sacrifice of Christ.
Solidarity is made known by the distribution of material and spiritual goods. As Christians, we are
called to give to those who have nothing. Jesus said, “Whoever has two tunics should share with
the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise” (Luke 3:11). And He commands
us, “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).
Solidarity “also presupposes the effort for a more just social order” in which tensions are more
easily reduced and “conflicts more readily settled by negotiation” (CCC 1940). Therefore, each small
(and large) community should be able to resolve problems within themselves. “If your brother sins
[against you], go and tell him his fault between you and him alone” (Matthew 18:15).
Activity
A. Distribute copies of Handout D: Solidarity and explain that you are going to show two video
clips, each pertaining to a set of questions on the page.
B. Project the first video, “Les Misérables — Look Down” found at SophiaOnline.org/
LesMisLookDown (or show the first 3:42 of the film Les Misérables from the DVD). After viewing
the clip, have your students answer the “Part I” questions on Solidarity.
C. After your students have completed “Part I,” project the second video, “Les Misérables (Look
Down)” found at SophiaOnline.org/LesMisLookDownBeggars (or show the segment from
scene 10, 1:06:43-1:09:33 of the film Les Misérables from the DVD). After viewing the clip, have
your students answer the “Part II” questions on Solidarity.
D. When your students have completed both sections of the worksheet, review and discuss their
answers as a class.
Assessment
On their own paper, have your students write two five- to seven-sentence paragraphs about what
they have learned in this lesson on society. Students must use examples from Scripture, their own
lives, and society. They may use their notes and their Bibles, as well as references to any videos and
stories shared in class.
EXPLORING CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING, lesson 9 99