Cardinals Call for a Moral Lens on U.S. Foreign Policy
In a recent public response, three U.S. Cardinals (Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago; Cardinal Robert McElroy, Archbishop of Washington; and Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark) urged policymakers and people of faith to evaluate U.S. foreign policy through the lens of Catholic social teaching. They emphasized that decisions about war, diplomacy, immigration, and international aid are not only strategic or political, but deeply moral. In addressing these things, the Cardinals were highlighting concerns that Pope Leo XIV had mentioned in his earlier State of the World address.
The Cardinals highlighted core principles such as the dignity of every human person, the preferential option for the poor, solidarity with vulnerable nations, and the pursuit of peace through dialogue rather than force. They cautioned against policies that ignore humanitarian consequences or treat human lives as expendable in the pursuit of national interest.
Their message invites Catholics to pray, reflect, and engage thoughtfully, recognizing that our faith calls us to care about the global common good. As disciples of Christ, we are challenged to ask not only what benefits our own country, but what promotes justice, peace, and human dignity for all God’s people.
If you feel called to respond with meaningful actions, consider these:
- Pray daily for peace and an end to violence.
- Be aware of the language that is used when talking about other nations, cultures, and people. Do our words reflect compassion.
- Contact elected officials to respectfully express support for policies that protect human life, promote peace, and uphold the dignity of the poor and vulnerable.
And we pray …
God of peace and justice,
Guide the hearts of our leaders and all who shape our nation’s policies.
Give them wisdom to seek the common good,
Courage to protect the dignity of every human life,
And compassion for those who suffer because of conflict, poverty, or displacement.
May we, your people, be instruments of your peace
And witnesses to your love in our world.
Amen.
Click here for the text of the Address of Pope Leo XIV to Members of the Diplomatic Corps Accredited to the Holy See
