Catholic Social Learning, Expanded Edition

“This is that rare volume whose medium and message move exquisitely in tandem. On practically every page, Roger Bergman inspires us to deeper reflection on effective education for justice, vocational development, and the entire process of social learning. Building upon its core themes of personal encounter, perspective transformation, and eliciting empathy for all, this book may well disrupt your accustomed perceptions of the ethical commitments required of all—starting with our student days and stretching across the lifespan.”


—Thomas Massaro, SJ, professor of moral theology, Fordham University





“Canvassing philosophers, poets, saints, social activists, and students, and drawing from the ancient-past or the now-present, an elite college campus or a poor campo community, Roger Bergman conveys the power of moral exemplars in our lives, as well as transformative experiences with the poor. These ‘encounterings’ build the foundations of curricula in peace, justice, and service programs that probe the mind, provoke the heart, and form global citizens of the best kind.”


—Daniel S. Hendrickson, SJ, president, Creighton University





“The Catholic university today more than ever needs to retrieve a more holistic teaching and learning model in which the intellectual, moral, and spiritual formation is central, and to retrieve its prophetic voice as an institution that models a more just response for the poor of the world rather than succumb to the seduction of neoliberalism and corporatization. Bergman leaves us to ponder that ‘people want to and have to believe that they live in a just world, so that they can go about their daily lives with a sense of trust, hope, and confidence in the future.’”


—Barbara E. Wall, editor, Journal of Catholic Social Thought





“How do we learn the rich but complex principles at the heart of Catholic social teaching? Read this book. Roger Bergman does a masterful job of integrating fields—from philosophy to social science—to build toward the book’s apropos title (which few others have addressed). New additions update an already remarkable early edition for the current moment. The work of justice is given new light and vision here, with wisdom for both educators and practitioners.”


—Jay Brandenberger, associate director, Center for Social Concerns, University of Notre Dame