Life and Human Dignity
In this lesson, you will learn the foundations for a consistent ethic of life, based upon scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Discussion Questions
- How can I be more intentional about recognizing and respecting the God-given dignity of each person I encounter?
- Thinking about my own self-worth, is my value as a person rooted in my own inherent dignity, or do I tend to see myself as worthy of respect because of what I have accomplished?
- How are my actions truly pro-life? Are there things that I might consider doing differently? Are there ways this group might act differently?
Every person—no matter their background, beliefs, abilities, or actions—has infinite worth because they are made in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). This dignity is not earned; it’s given by God. To be more intentional, we start with how we see people. “Do I see this person as someone God loves?” Try to see beyond the exterior, behavior, or labels—to the soul that God treasures. We should practice small acts of reverence. Listen attentively without interrupting. Greet others with warmth and kindness. Avoid gossip, judgment, or comparison. Learn people’s names—especially those who are often overlooked. We must also remember that Christ is present in others. “Whatever you did for the least of these… you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
Christ is in the poor, the elderly, the difficult, the unborn, the prisoner, the immigrant, the lonely, and the annoying. We treat each one as if you’re meeting Christ Himself. When thinking about my own self-worth, I ask if my value is rooted in God-given dignity or in my accomplishments. This is an important spiritual self-check. The world often tells us: You are what you do. You are what you produce. You are what others think of you. But God says: You are my beloved child. (Matthew 3:17) “God doesn’t love us because we are good. He loves us because He is good.” – St. Teresa of Calcutta
The Catholic pro-life ethic is more than being “against abortion”—it’s about being for the sacredness of all human life, at every stage, from conception to natural death. We must speak up for the vulnerable, the unborn, the poor, disabled, elderly, and refugee. We can’t just be anti-abortion. If we are truly pro-life we will support women in crisis pregnancies with compassion and at all stages.
When reflecting, I realize the following activities that would truly make a difference. Volunteering at a pregnancy center, shelter, or hospice. Advocating for just policies that protect human dignity. Speaking about life issues with truth, love, and tenderness (not in anger or fear). And choosing words that heal, not wound.
“Being pro-life means wanting the best for every person—born and unborn.” – Pope Francis