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Citizenship – Rights and Duties. Chapter 9. Citizenship – Rights and Duties. Man is bound to the legitimate authority of the state, whose authority comes from God. A state is a society of people united under a common government or authority.
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Citizenship – Rights and Duties Chapter 9
Citizenship – Rights and Duties • Man is bound to the legitimate authority of the state, whose authority comes from God. • A state is a society of people united under a common government or authority. • The state has the authority to make just laws for its citizens, in accordance with Divine Law.
Citizenship – Rights and Duties • The state should never demand something that is against God’s Law. • Man is always obliged to follow God’s Law. • There are different kinds of governments and there can be several legitimate and good ways to govern a nation.
Citizenship – Rights and Duties • Citizens have rights and duties. We must obey all laws and regulations, pay taxes, support the government, and when necessary, defend our nation. • Patriotism is the virtue of love for one’s country. It is dedication to the welfare of the whole country and its citizens. • “Legal” and “moral” are not interchangeable terms. Legal means permitted by law. Moral means good in the eyes of God.
Citizenship – Rights and Duties • As Christians, we must be concerned for all God’s children. Many people and nations are in need of aid. • Wealthier and stronger countries have a responsibility to help the poorer and weaker nations and to uphold the dignity of all people. • We should pray for our country and its leaders.
Duties of the Government Duties of the Citizen • Promote and serve the common good (allowing people to have what they need in order to be truly happy) • Make just laws • Encourage virtues and sound values • Allow people to live according to God’s Laws • Promote justice and preserve the welfare of the community • Uphold human dignity of citizens • Obey all just laws and regulations • Work to have unjust laws or laws that violate peoples’ rights changed • Be concerned for the health and well being of society • Pay taxes • Defend the nation from attack when necessary