Mater et magistra

Mater et magistra
Latin for 'Mother and Teacher'
Encyclical of Pope John XXIII
Coat of arms of Pope John XXIII
Signature date 15 May 1961
SubjectOn the increasing development of social issues in the light of the Christian doctrine
Number5 of 8 of the pontificate
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Mater et magistra is the encyclical written by Pope John XXIII on the topic of "Christianity and Social Progress". It was promulgated on 15 May 1961. The title means "mother and teacher", referring to the role of the church. It describes a necessity to work towards authentic community in order to promote human dignity. It taught that the state must sometimes intervene in matters of health care, education, and housing.