The Catechism explains justice as, “the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC 1807). Recall that a virtue is a habitual and firm disposition to do the good. Therefore, justice means that we give to God and neighbor what they are owed because of who they are, and that it should become habitual to do so.

There are many saints who show us what justice looks like when it is lived out to the full. Throughout this lesson, we will talk about Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, St. Maria Goretti, and St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata and the examples of justice they give us through their life stories. We also should think about where we see justice in our own lives, in our school, in our neighborhood, and in our country.

Justice is part of respect for the human person. If we truly see the dignity of every person, of course we will reach out to those who have less than what they need. In this lesson, we will look at the story of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati and how he helped to make a more just society.

Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

1 Timothy 4:12,