Singapore (AsiaNews) – Giving generously to charity is not enough. “We also must work to change the systems in society that prevent the disadvantaged from progressing,” said Caritas Singapore at its annual Social Mission Conference, which started on 21 August. The meeting attracted more than 600 people associated with the social work scene in the city-state.

The conference focused on the Catholic Church’s distinction between charity and justice. Charity involves works of mercy to help those in need. Justice, however, is about unfairness and inequalities in society and ways to get to the root of the problems that underlie them. Justice is not an extra; it gives people back their basic rights.

The difference is important when we look at our attitude in helping the poor or needy. Indeed, “That which is already due in justice is not to be offered as a gift of charity,” reads the Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People issued by the Second Vatican Council.

At the conference, keynote speaker Dr Lesley-Anne Knight outlined a practical, modern-day point of view on Church teachings.

For example, she said that Caritas is seeking ‘climate justice’. This means that in addition to calling for cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, the catholic charity wants solutions that focus on the needs of poorer countries, on adaptation strategies, disaster preparedness and sustainable development.

Archbishop Nicholas Chia, Adelaide Vicar-General David Cappo, and Caritas Singapore Chairman Willie Cheng also addressed the conference.

One participant, Wilson Tan, told AsiaNews, “I was amazed that there were so many people interested in social work. I’m encouraged to see so many coming forward to contribute to mission in the Archdiocese.”