Community Cohesion and the Church's Social Teachings in Light of the Virus Restrictions

Abstract

The recent societal restrictions in reaction to the risk of viral spread have cast light upon a number of issues in society, many of which are addressed at least to some extent by the Church’s Social Doctrine regarding subsidiarity, participation, and solidarity. This paper seeks to show that by developing the presence of these teachings in understanding and dialogue, so that they can be implemented appropriately at local levels where possible, which may lead to wider discussions regarding community cohesion and development, communities as well as individuals would benefi t, thus contributing to society and the common good. The Church’s teachings in the three areas are considered in light of the recent restrictions, as well as how we are called not only to develop the Church’s teachings but also our preparedness and ability to explain them as well as the source of these teachings when called upon. Therefore, this paper fi nds not only that it is possible for subsidiarity, participation, and solidarity to help develop and improve community cohesion, but that the calls of Scripture and the Second Vatican Council to be prepared and to share our beliefs include this area of our lives. These can be developed through a greater presence of the Church’s Social Doctrine in wider education, particularly but not only at university level and in clerical formation, and also by these ideas being presented more eff ectively in dialogue with others in local communities, which would help communities be better prepared for the unexpected in future.