To the editor:
I commend the publication of Fr. Jim Murphy’s letter in the December 25 edition of the Madison Catholic Herald. He brought up a topic we, as Catholics, need to consider. I, too, am concerned about the participation of Catholics in unprovoked wars. I think Father Murphy’s admonition of prudent caution regarding Catholic involvement in the U.S. military at this time is well spoken.
Our stance as Catholics regarding war is a pro-life issue when we consider the destruction of lives, especially innocent civilians, and the refugee and poverty situations that result along with the long-term costs to the environment. In this day and age, as Pope Paul II had said, war is always a defeat for humanity, both for the perpetrators and the victims.
I think we, as Catholic Christians, need to be very strong advocates for diplomacy that utilizes credible and non-destructive avenues to resolve conflicts and other humanitarian issues that arise in the world community.
With a new administration we have the opportunity to have a major impact on both the domestic and foreign policies of our country. We must strive to be well informed on national and world issues and not unthinkingly support war in the name of a false patriotism.
Our Catholic social teaching principles should be an important part of parish education programs. The Gospel teachings of non-violence need to be presented in the homilies heard in our parish liturgies. Both will give us a good foundation for thoughtful communications to our senators and representatives.
Sr. Marie Louise Seckar, O.P., Madison