We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic and ideological differences. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper, wherever they may be. Loving our neighbor has global dimensions in a shrinking world. At the core of the virtue of solidarity is the pursuit of justice and peace. Pope Paul VI taught that “if you want peace, work for justice.” The Gospel calls us to be peacemakers. Our love for all our sisters and brothers demands that we promote peace in a world surrounded by violence and conflict.
Sollicitudo rei Socialis (“The Social Concern”; encyclical of Pope John Paul II, 1987): Solidarity is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good; that is to say, to the good of all and of each individual, because we are really responsible for all.
Economic Justice for All (Pastoral Letter from the U.S. Bishops, 1986): We have to move from our devotion of independence through an understanding of interdependence, to a commitment of human solidarity… Love implies concern for all…