Well, let me start by saying that the whole topic of war with Iraq certainly seems to galvanize people either one way or the other. My comments last week on praying about the war certainly triggered a tremendous surge in the feedback department!

In response to the numerous people who lambasted me to some degree or other over the fact that I did not come out and openly support President Bush, I've decided to address the topic again this week. I'm probably asking for it, but that's what makes this job fun!

Let me start by clarifying one thing right now: the Church is not saying that this is a "just" war. If you'd like to read an article on that, here is one that was written in October, but is still very relevant:

Bishop Wilton Gregory, president of the U.S. bishops' conference, did acknowledged that "war has serious consequences, and so could failure to act" and "that people of good will can and do differ" on these matters. Keep in mind, however, that this does not mean that everyone is right so long as they truly believe the position they've taken. God's truth is not relative. It's in there somewhere -- so everybody can't be "right".

Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, reminded political leaders that they cannot invoke the name of God to justify violence. He stated, "God is reconciliation and peace. He must be seen as the one who unites us and not as the one who separates us and justifies violence." He then added that, "the Holy Father has stressed numerous times that violence cannot be invoked in the name of God."

As Christians, we have a great responsibility to our fellow human beings. All of them. And that responsibility only extends to the use of force under extremely strict circumstances.

I am proud to be an American, and though I did not serve in the military, many of my family members did. But as proud of this country as I am, I have to tell you that I am even MORE proud to be a Catholic Christian. My President won't get me into heaven, but my God can.

What the Church asks of us is not easy. Being Christian does not always seem "logical", and it is quite often counter-culture. But especially in uncertain times like these, we should turn to a higher authority for guidance. I truly believe that the Holy Spirit works through the Magisterium of the Catholic Church, and though I may not initially agree with everything they say, I realize that I do not know everything. And in these matters of morality, I believe the Church knows more than I do... and more than the leaders of our great nation.

Why? Because God is bigger than all that.

For now, I will continue to pray for our troops every day. I will keep praying for our leaders. I will pray for every single person on every side of this conflict. And I will pray for my children, that they will someday see a peaceful end to war.

Peace,
Brandon