Understanding and application of the tradition and teachings of the Catholic Church with regard to health care occurs through learning, which builds knowledge of these topics:

Christian Anthropology
The Christian vision of the human person created in God's image; a unity of body, mind, and spirit; possessing inalienable, intrinsic worth; and flourishing in community

Church
The life of the church; the place of the health ministry within the church; the ministry's relationships with the church; and the meaning of "ministry"

Ethics
Ethical reflection, decision making, and action; organizational ethical issues; and clinical ethical issues

Laity
The meaning of baptism; the universal call to holiness; the role of the laity

Mission
Jesus' mission of healing; and the Christian approach to the mystery of suffering

Prayer/Ritual
The meaning of prayer; personal, spiritual disciplines; leading the organization community in prayer and rituals

Sacramentality
How service in health care reveals God's healing presence

Servant Leadership
Examining and assimilating leadership behaviors modeled after Jesus

Social Teaching
The special attention paid to persons who are poor, vulnerable, and marginalized; the pursuit of workplace dignity and justice; and the commitment to promote the common good

Spirituality
Spirituality of the individual and of the organization; nurturing workplace spirituality

Stewardship
Examining the distinction between ownership and stewardship, and consequent responsibilities regarding the use of all resources

Vocation
The meaning of call and vocation; discernment and articulation of one's own call