This article sets out a rationale for implementing Christian service-learning in Catholic schools. The article initially explores Jesus' Gospel call to serve. A brief summary of Catholic social doctrine is then presented and the concept of service-learning is discussed.

Four categories of community outreach by Catholic schools are outline, these being community service, Christian service, service-learning within a Christian context, and faith-focused Christian service-learning. Finally, various implications for promoting Christian service-learning in Catholic schools are considered in the light of the principles of charity and service as outlined in the encyclical letter Deus Caritas Est.