THE Catholic Church teaches us to love our neighbour. The modern world encourages us to only think of ourselves.
It is this conflict of interest that figures powerfully in Western society.
The Church has stepped in to play a major role in the social service sector of this country.
Its mission is to serve those who are in need.
But to carry out this role the Church needs to be able to work closely in partnership with the government and other community sectors.
Caring for the less privileged is not a job that should be left solely to the Church. It is a joint responsibility.
Through action and example, this is a lesson the Church can powerfully convey to the rest of society.