Welcome to the Future of Peace: Pax Christi’s Institute for Nonviolence
As the world prepares to embrace a new era of nonviolence, Cardinal Robert McElroy emphasizes the importance of aligning our actions with the teachings of the Gospel. In an exclusive interview with Vatican News, Cardinal McElroy highlights the need for Christians to address conflicts that often go unnoticed in certain regions around the globe.
By Francesca Merlo
While the concept of a “just war” has been debated by Christian ethicists for centuries, Cardinal McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, asserts that this theory contradicts the fundamental principles of the Gospel. Despite its perceived morality, Cardinal McElroy emphasizes that engaging in warfare should never be the primary solution for resolving conflicts.
With the upcoming inauguration of the Catholic Institute for Nonviolence by Pax Christi International in Rome, Cardinal McElroy underscores the importance of acknowledging the different forms of violence present in society. He stresses that all forms of violence are incompatible with the message of the Gospel.
Through active nonviolence, the Institute aims to address ongoing conflicts, civil wars, and international disputes from a fresh perspective. Cardinal McElroy asserts that achieving peace extends beyond the absence of war and entails promoting harmony, human dignity, and solidarity among people.
While the term “nonviolence” originated outside the Catholic Church, visionaries like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. championed its principles. Cardinal McElroy acknowledges the global relevance of nonviolence and calls for a collective effort to nurture international norms of peace.
The Catholic Institute for Nonviolence represents a diverse group of individuals, including representatives from conflict-affected regions like South Sudan and Palestine, as well as major world powers. By engaging in conversations that transcend borders, the Institute aims to shed light on overlooked conflicts and offer innovative solutions to complex issues.
In the spirit of Pope Francis’ encyclical Fratelli tutti, Cardinal McElroy advocates for a shift in mindset towards inclusivity and solidarity. He challenges us to confront our indifference towards global conflicts and embrace a holistic approach to building lasting peace.
Join us on this transformative journey towards a more peaceful and compassionate world. Together, we can overcome violence and pave the way for a brighter future for all.
