What does Rerum Novarum say about human dignity, the family, just wages, and Catholic social doctrine? And how does this fit into a Culture of Life?

In this episode, Fr. Shenan Boquet breaks down the key principles of Rerum Novarum, the landmark 1891 encyclical by Pope Leo XIII that laid the foundation for modern Catholic Social Teaching.

With the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, who invoked Rerum Novarum in his very first address, we explore what this could mean for the Church’s engagement with urgent modern issues: demographic winter, falling birth rates, AI, the collapse of the family, and global economic injustice.

This episode covers:

• What is Rerum Novarum?

• Key principles of Catholic Social Teaching (human dignity, subsidiarity, solidarity)

• The Church’s teaching on the just wage (and how this could help turn the demographic winter around)

• How Catholic social doctrine intersects with sexual morality and pro-life ethics

• How Pope Leo XIV might apply these teachings to modern crises—including artificial intelligence and the population crisis

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Living the Culture of Life

Fr. Shenan Boquet shares his personal experience of being in St. Peter’s Square for the historic announcement of Pope Leo XIV. He also reflects on the significance of the new pontificate and what it means for the global pro-life and pro-family movement.

We also discuss the critical challenges Pope Leo XIV is likely to confront. For instance, our new Holy Father has committed to addressing the rise of artificial intelligence. Right now, AI is being used to negatively influence how society views human sexuality, marriage, and life itself.

Fr. Boquet also discusses Pope Leo XIV’s pro-life stance, his commitment to marriage between one man and one woman, and how our Holy Father could help spread a Culture of Life around the world.

Fr. Boquet's Spirit & Life article on Pope Leo XIV: Habemus Papam: We Have a New Pope | Human Life International

Did you know there's a global depopulation agenda? Find out more by downloading your free eBook now! Uncover the Global Depopulation Project (Funded with Your Tax Dollars!) | HLI

Remember to follow this podcast on Instagram (@cultureoflife_podcast) and on X (@cultureoflife_p / X)!

Living the Culture of Life

What is the Catholic vision of adoption? How does is foster a Culture of Life?

In this episode, Fr. Shenan Boquet explains why adoption is a procreative, life-giving act rooted in love. He explains how to discern whether you're called to adopt, why adoption is an essential part of a Culture of Life, and how adoption benefits both a couple and the child.

Fr. Boquet explains why adoption is so much more than just "plan B." Whether you're struggling with infertility or already have biological children, you should open your heart to considering adoption! Father also answers the debated question: should single people adopt?

Whether you’re discerning adoption or want to better understand the Church’s vision for family, this conversation offers deep spiritual insight and clarity.

Fr. Boquet's Spirit & Life article on adoption: Saving Lives Through Adoption | Human Life International

Did you know there's a global depopulation agenda? Find out more by downloading your free eBook now! Uncover the Global Depopulation Project (Funded with Your Tax Dollars!) | HLI

Remember to follow this podcast on Instagram (@cultureoflife_podcast) and on X (@cultureoflife_p / X)!

Living the Culture of Life