Faith & Justice

Why Our Faith Calls Us to Speak Out

“Once the demands of necessity and propriety have been met, the rest that one owns belongs to the poor.” — Pope Leo XIII, Rerum Novarum

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul has always stood with the poor — not only by offering direct aid, but also by seeking to transform unjust structures that cause poverty. Our founders taught us that charity and justice must walk together, inseparably.

Today, rising utility costs in Illinois threaten the basic dignity of many families. As Vincentians, we are called to respond — not only with temporary relief, but with a prophetic voice demanding justice.

“Charity is the Samaritan who pours oil on the wounds of the traveler who has been attacked. But, it is justice’s role to prevent the attack.” — Blessed Frédéric Ozanam

To sign this petition is to recognize that the traveler still lies wounded — and that unjust utility burdens are attacks we can and must prevent.

Catholic Social Teaching Principles at Work

• Life and Dignity of the Human Person: Access to electricity and heat is essential for health and dignity. Families should not be forced to choose between warmth and food.
  
  

• Preferential Option for the Poor: Utility hikes disproportionately harm the most vulnerable. Justice demands protection for those least able to bear these costs.
  
  

• Solidarity: We are one human family. Economic policies that benefit corporations but burden families violate our shared responsibility.
  
  

• The Common Good: Energy is a common good. Policies must ensure affordability and sustainability, balancing economic growth with human needs.
  
  

Papal Wisdom on Energy Justice

“Access to energy is essential for human development. The poor should not bear the cost of progress that benefits the few.”
— Pope Francis, Laudato Si’

“To love someone is to desire that person’s good and to take effective steps to secure it.”
— Pope Benedict XVI, Caritas in Veritate

Our Vincentian Call

As Vincentians, we serve the poor with compassion every day. But today, we must also raise our voices in justice. When basic necessities like power and heat become unaffordable, our faith demands action.

Let us live the Gospel not only in acts of mercy — but in bold calls for fairness.

Let justice roll down like waters (Amos 5:24) — and let no family freeze in the dark.