Dear Friends in Christ,
The political landscape in the U.S. has changed noticeably in the past few months.
On issues ranging from transgenderism to immigration to tariffs and everything in between, a new tone has been sounded.
What has been notable, too, are the reactions from various corners of the Church, including Rome.
A particularly volatile topic has been immigration. It has stirred a debate touching on the demands (and limits) of human compassion and the rights of nations to safeguard their borders.
It’s not an issue that can be resolved here; it’s far too complex and impervious to simple solutions.
The debate itself, however, has the potential for good or ill.
On the upside, it can lead to a fruitful discussion that taps into the wisdom of Church social doctrine that can help enlighten public officials who seek a prudent and humane way to deal with a big problem.
On the downside, the tensions between Church and state can spill over into the pews and even prompt some of the faithful to give more weight to secular leaders than to the bishops.
Church-state tensions are nothing new, of course. They can be traced back to the days of Constantine in the fourth century.
So why mention all this?
With the coming of Lent, it’s a good moment to recall that we can best help our fellow citizens and nations when we live our faith to the full.
Our union with Christ and our life of piety and charity can help make us to be the leaven that keeps a society fresh and peaceful and humane.
To help prepare for Lent it might be worth praying along with our Colors of the Cross Retreat Guide.
And it’s good to keep our civil leaders in our prayers. They, like us, need the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In Christ,
Father Edward McIlmail, LC
Ask a Priest contributor
