Welcome to “Called to be Peacemakers” – A Catholic Approach to Arms Control and Disarmament
Are you looking for guidance on understanding the Catholic perspective on arms control and disarmament amidst global tensions? Look no further, as the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales has released a new document titled “Called to be Peacemakers”
Authored by Lisa Zengarini, the International Affairs department of the CBCEW issued this important document. It emphasizes the significance of Catholic teachings in promoting global disarmament and ethical use of weapons. The document urges Catholics to advocate for disarmament. It specifically calls on the British Government to abandon its nuclear arsenal and work towards multilateral disarmament.
Embracing the Church Teachings and Moral Obligations
The document, “Called to be Peacemakers”, embodies the Catholic approach to arms control and disarmament, drawing inspiration from various Papal encyclicals and Church documents. It underscores that the proliferation of weapons is causing catastrophic outcomes for vulnerable populations globally. As Christians, we hold a moral obligation to champion nuclear disarmament, challenge the arms trade, and promote limitations on developing more destructive military technology.
With its 20-page content, “Called to be Peacemakers” comprises an introduction, three chapters dissecting specific themes, and concluding with actionable points. The final reflection accentuates the importance of Catholics answering the call to be peacemakers in today’s turbulent world by advocating for global disarmament.
Empowered by Pope Francis’ Encouragement
The bishops recall the Church’s persistent call for states with nuclear weapons to disarm. Catholics are particularly urged to respond to Pope Francis’ plea to counter fear with responsibility, paving the way for trust and dialogue.
Rethinking Military Expenditure and Development
The document’s second segment delves into the Church’s plea for complete disarmament. This doesn’t imply stripping all defense capabilities but focuses on eliminating weapons of mass destruction, regulating conventional arms, reducing military spending for poverty relief and human development, and bolstering peace mechanisms.
Urging a Moratorium on Lethal Technologies
The third section addresses the ethical dilemmas posed by military drones and autonomous weapons systems. It advocates for a halt in developing and deploying such technologies, calling for human-centric weapon utilization in service to humanity.
Call to Action for World Peace
The document urges the UK government to take specific steps towards peace, including abandoning its nuclear arsenal, fulfilling Non-Proliferation Treaty obligations, advancing multilateral disarmament, and engaging with the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. It calls for redirecting resources from nuclear weapons towards the common good.
Joining the Mission for Peace
In conclusion, “Called to be Peacemakers” encourages Catholics to follow Jesus’ example by becoming peacemakers in today’s chaotic world. It emphasizes the importance of advocating for peace through various avenues, such as engaging political representatives, supporting peace organizations, and participating in public displays of solidarity for peace.
Join us in championing peace and disarmament as we heed the call to be peacemakers in a world filled with tensions.
