The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church is a publication of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. It was developed at the request of Pope John Paul II as a concise summary of the manifold Church teachings on social issues. A wide range of topics are covered including politics, economics, education and the family.

The text was released in Rome in 2004 and was published in Ireland in the Spring of 2005. This work is available to read on the Vatican website by clicking here . Alternatively, the text can be purchased in bookshops and can also be ordered online at Veritas .

In an effort to promote the work the Irish Commission for Justice and Social Affairs (ICJSA) organised a conference on the Compendium which took place at Croke Park in March 2006. It was entitled ‘The Common Good in an Unequal World’ and featured prominent speakers including Professor William Binchy, Mrs Nuala O’Loan and Lord Patten.

You can find out more details, including access to photos and speeches, by clicking on the conference website here .