On The Brink of War

      In the past several weeks, the United States has been on the brink of entering another armed conflict/war, this time with Iran. The U.S.-Iran relationship is very fragile after recent incidents in the Mideast. And, in another major area of concern, the U.S., under the current administration, called for new efforts to remove undocumented immigrants, including families. The President has since postponed this action for two weeks, inviting Congress to work out an immigration deal.

      Both of these events and their ramifications must give us pause as people of faith. We must consider what the teachings of Jesus and Church doctrine say to us about war and immigration. In fact, the church teaches: The fifth commandment forbids the intentional destruction of human life. Because of the evils and injustices that accompany all war, the Church insistently urges everyone to prayer and to action so that the divine Goodness may free us from the ancient bondage of war. (Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), n. 2307). The Church recognizes sovereign nations’ right to defend themselves, but above all the Church emphasizes the need to build up and safeguard peace. (Read numbers 2302-2330 of the CCC for additional principles.)

      With regard to immigration, there are two needs to balance – those of the immigrant and those of the sovereign nation. The Church teaches: The more prosperous nations are obliged, to the extent they are able, to welcome the foreigner in search of the security and the means of livelihood which he cannot find in his country of origin. Public authorities should see to it that the natural right is respected that places a guest under the protection of those who receive him…Immigrants are obliged to respect with gratitude the material and spiritual heritage of the country that receives them, to obey its laws and to assist in carrying civic burdens.(CCC, n. 2241).

      Furthermore, those who seek asylum are considered “refugees.” The Church teaches: Refugees…should be entitled to the rights which are ensured to them. These include freedom of movement and the right to work. In addition they have the right to be recognized as a person in law and the right of equal protection by the law, with freedom of thought, conscience and religion, (“Welcoming Christ In Refugees And Forcibly Displaced Persons,” n. 61; Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People).

   The Church values the work of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), with regard to asylum seekers. While international agreements already exist, the Church invites nations to strengthen these agreements even more. 

Peace, Fr. Andy