Thursday, January 22, 2004
Papal Wisdom on Social Issues: Leo XIII on the Christian Constitution of States
The Catholic Church is primarily a religious organization. We seek, ultimately, the salvation of souls, and telling those souls of the truth of spending eternal happiness with Allmighty God in heaven. As faithful Catholics, that is our first goal. Yet Catholics are salt to the Earth as well. This salt also carries over into the temporal atmosphere, the enviroment of politics, social issues, and many others. Indeed, I believe it is a worthy and noble task for the role of a Catholic politician if he adheres to Catholic teaching, as he and he alone will do the best job of championing the true rights of people. Leo XIII goes into this temporal role of the Church in Immortale Dei, which we shall take a look at. His pontificate is probably best known for his work Rerum Novarum. Yet I honestly feel that Rerum Novarum cannot be understood, unless all the other encyclicals of a social issue are also covered. All the social issues Leo XIII tackles I think can honestly be seen as their culmination in Rerum Novarum. This is why that encyclical will be the last one Culture of Christ covers. Let us begin to look at what Leo XIII states.
"The Catholic Church, that imperishable handiwork of our all-merciful God, has for her immediate and natural purpose the saving of souls and securing our happiness in heaven. Yet, in regard to things temporal, she is the source of benefits as manifold and great as if the chief end of her existence were to ensure the prospering of our earthly life. And, indeed, wherever the Church has set her foot she has straightway changed the face of things, and has attempered the moral tone of the people with a new civilization and with virtues before unknown. All nations which have yielded to her sway have become eminent by their gentleness, their sense of justice, and the glory of their high deeds. "
Kevin Tierney: As always, Leo XIII starts out with a very plain, simple teaching, the Catholic Church is mankinds greatest hope. On the issues which effect mankind, the Catholic Church has always been the champion of those who seek good. Even in todays war against abortion, the most formiddable opponents of the abortion lobby are not Jerry Falwell, not Chuck Colson, but indeed, courages Catholic leaders and pundits, whose strength and fortitude are widley respected in this war.
"2. And yet a hackneyed reproach of old date is leveled against her, that the Church is opposed to the rightful aims of the civil government, and is wholly unable to afford help in spreading that welfare and progress which justly and naturally are sought after by every well-regulated State. From the very beginning Christians were harassed by slanderous accusations of this nature, and on that account were held up to hatred and execration, for being (so they were called) enemies of the Empire. The Christian religion was moreover commonly charged with being the cause of the calamities that so frequently befell the State, whereas, in very truth, just punishment was being awarded to guilty nations by an avenging God. This odious calumny, with most valid reason, nerved the genius and sharpened the pen of St. Augustine, who, notably in his treatise, "The City of God," set forth in so bright a light the worth of Christian wisdom in its relation to the public wealth that he seems not merely to have pleaded the cause of the Christians of his day, but to have refuted for all future times impeachments so grossly contrary to truth."
Kevin Tierney: There is nothing new under the sun, and this is a perfect example. Even from the beginnings of Christianity on that blessed day at Pentecost, the idea of state has attempted to proclaim that Christianity is her adversary, rather than her most precious ally. As St. Justin Martyr so eloquently stated in his apology to the Emporer, Christians are moral people, who promote following most of the rules of State. Therefore, they are good citizens, willing to advance the greatness of the country they live in. The only thing they do is order it based on God's infinite wisdom, not man's ever-changing heart. When states heeding this advice, they always prospered. Civilization's most enlightened times happened under Christian rule. Civilization thrived, and savagery was condemned.
"The wicked proneness, however, to levy like charges and accusations has not been lulled to rest. Many, indeed, are they who have tried to work out a plan of civil society based on doctrines other than those approved by the Catholic Church. Nay, in these latter days a novel conception of law has begun here and there to gain increase and influence, the outcome, as it is maintained, of an age arrived at full stature, and the result of progressive liberty. But, though endeavors of various kinds have been ventured on, it is clear that no better mode has been devised for the building up and ruling the State than that which is the necessary growth of the teachings of the Gospel. We deem it, therefore, of the highest moment, and a strict duty of Our apostolic office, to contrast with the lessons taught by Christ the novel theories now advanced touching the State. By this means We cherish hope that the bright shining of the truth may scatter the mists of error and doubt, so that one and all may see clearly the imperious law of life which they are bound to follow and obey."
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII goes right to the heart of the manner. He is stating the current errors of thought, are not neccessarily new, but just rehashing of old errors with a new spin on them. The modern state believes these goals can now be achieved, because of it's enlightened age, and it's "progressive liberty." The Pontiff realizes that cross and crown cannot truly be separated, and shows how the teaching of the cross, greatly contrasts the teaching of the modern crown in his day, and his teachings have just as much relevance for today as they did a century ago, as has already been demonstrated in the previous commentaries.
"6. As a consequence, the State, constituted as it is, is clearly bound to act up to the manifold and weighty duties linking it to God, by the public profession of religion. Nature and reason, which command every individual devoutly to worship God in holiness, because we belong to Him and must return to Him, since from Him we came, bind also the civil community by a like law. For, men living together in society are under the power of God no less than individuals are, and society, no less than individuals, owes gratitude to God who gave it being and maintains it and whose everbounteous goodness enriches it with countless blessings. Since, then, no one is allowed to be remiss in the service due to God, and since the chief duty of all men is to cling to religion in both its teaching and practice-not such religion as they may have a preference for, but the religion which God enjoins, and which certain and most clear marks show to be the only one true religion -- it is a public crime to act as though there were no God. So, too, is it a sin for the State not to have care for religion as a something beyond its scope, or as of no practical benefit; or out of many forms of religion to adopt that one which chimes in with the fancy; for we are bound absolutely to worship God in that way which He has shown to be His will. All who rule, therefore, would hold in honor the holy name of God, and one of their chief duties must be to favor religion, to protect it, to shield it under the credit and sanction of the laws, and neither to organize nor enact any measure that may compromise its safety. This is the bounden duty of rulers to the people over whom they rule. For one and all are we destined by our birth and adoption to enjoy, when this frail and fleeting life is ended, a supreme and final good in heaven, and to the attainment of this every endeavor should be directed. Since, then, upon this depends the full and perfect happiness of mankind, the securing of this end should be of all imaginable interests the most urgent. Hence, civil society, established for the common welfare, should not only safeguard the wellbeing of the community, but have also at heart the interests of its individual members, in such mode as not in any way to hinder, but in every manner to render as easy as may be, the possession of that highest and unchangeable good for which all should seek. Wherefore, for this purpose, care must especially be taken to preserve unharmed and unimpeded the religion whereof the practice is the link connecting man with God. "
Kevin Tierney: I can gaurentee many of my American readers are finding this statement a little tough to swallow. Athiesm a danger to society, and recomended as a punishable crime? Yet let us Catholics really examine this issue. As Catholics, we realize that we alone can give the Gospel in it's fullness, leading to the salvation of souls, thanks be to God. The message of the Gospel is for all aspects of life, to truly better it to give service to God. This includes the political, economic, and social sphere. Would we not want a staunchly Catholic presence giving these teachings of true liberty and prosperity, so our country would truly be great? As we will see elsewhere, Leo XIII realizes at times of expediency, this situation may not be realized. Right now, this I believe is one of those times, but that does not mean we should just accept that. We are to always work to bring about this right situation, as no battle is won overnight or without hardship.
"13. The Almighty, therefore, has given the charge of the human race to two powers, the ecclesiastical and the civil, the one being set over divine, and the other over human, things. Each in its kind is supreme, each has fixed limits within which it is contained, limits which are defined by the nature and special object of the province of each, so that there is, we may say, an orbit traced out within which the action of each is brought into play by its own native right. But, inasmuch as each of these two powers has authority over the same subjects, and as it might come to pass that one and the same thing -- related differently, but still remaining one and the same thing -- might belong to the jurisdiction and determination of both, therefore God, who foresees all things, and who is the author of these two powers, has marked out the course of each in right correlation to the other. "For the powers that are, are ordained of God."[17] Were this not so, deplorable contentions and conflicts would often arise, and, not infrequently, men, like travelers at the meeting of two roads, would hesitate in anxiety and doubt, not knowing what course to follow. Two powers would be commanding contrary things, and it would be a dereliction of duty to disobey either of the two. "
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII here brilliantly outlines how Church and State, each having the same creator, for different means, must work together for perfect harmony. The 20th century can be summarily marked as one of the centuries where God was indeed absent from the State, and it has without a doubt been the most destructive century mankind has endured. This is a message from God, that both spheres he has created are indeed good, when used for noble purposes.
"14. But it would be most repugnant to them to think thus of the wisdom and goodness of God. Even in physical things, albeit of a lower order, the Almighty has so combined the forces and springs of nature with tempered action and wondrous harmony that no one of them clashes with any other, and all of them most fitly and aptly work together for the great purpose of the universe. There must, accordingly, exist between these two powers a certain orderly connection, which may be compared to the union of the soul and body in man. The nature and scope of that connection can be determined only, as We have laid down, by having regard to the nature of each power, and by taking account of the relative excellence and nobleness of their purpose. One of the two has for its proximate and chief object the well-being of this mortal life; the other, the everlasting joys of heaven. Whatever, therefore in things human is of a sacred character, whatever belongs either of its own nature or by reason of the end to which it is referred, to the salvation of souls, or to the worship of God, is subject to the power and judgment of the Church. Whatever is to be ranged under the civil and political order is rightly subject to the civil authority. Jesus Christ has Himself given command that what is Caesar's is to be rendered to Caesar, and that what belongs to God is to be rendered to God. "
Kevin Tierney: We can see where Pope Leo is taking this. He is outlining the distinctions and differences between the civil and religious. Now there are many liberals, even within Catholic circles, who believe that because of these differences, they should be absolutely separate. Yet as we know, the mortal well-being and the spiritual well-being are things which while separate, cannot be absolutely separated. They are distinct institutions, but they cannot work independently of each other, since many times, their goals will overlap. The State's promotion of mortal well-being and adherence to it's authority Christian principles well respect, so it would certainly be expedient for the State to seek out Christian principles on which to govern. Likewise, the Church is looking to preach the Gospel as often as possible, and State can provide such situations where this is to occur.
"17. In such organization of the State there is nothing that can be thought to infringe upon the dignity of rulers, and nothing unbecoming them; nay, so far from degrading the sovereign power in its due rights, it adds to it permanence and luster. Indeed, when more fully pondered, this mutual coordination has a perfection in which all other forms of government are lacking, and from which excellent results would flow, were the several component parts to keep their place and duly discharge the office and work appointed respectively for each. And, doubtless, in the constitution of the State such as We have described, divine and human things are equitably shared; the rights of citizens assured to them, and fenced round by divine, by natural, and by human law; the duties incumbent on each one being wisely marked out, and their fulfillment fittingly insured. In their uncertain and toilsome journey to the everlasting city all see that they have safe guides and helpers on their way, and are conscious that others have charge to protect their persons alike and their possessions, and to obtain or preserve for them everything essential for their present life. Furthermore, domestic society acquires that firmness and solidity so needful to it from the holiness of marriage, one and indissoluble, wherein the rights and duties of husband and wife are controlled with wise justice and equity; due honor is assured to the woman; the authority of the husband is conformed to the pattern afforded by the authority of God; the power of the father is tempered by a due regard for the dignity of the mother and her offspring; and the best possible provision is made for the guardianship, welfare, and education of the children. "
Kevin Tierney: Pope Leo points out one area that indeed, Church and state cannot truly separate and function justly, that of marriage. A married family that has stability at home, the kind which Christian marriage indeed promotes. Marriage is primarily a pact before God. The State recognizes this pact, realizing in the end, these healthy, stable homes contribute greatly to Society. Therefore, the State should indeed promote, and recognize such marriages, since State's primary goal is not to "give the people what they want" but to ensure those people's well being. We will be covering Leo XIII's teaching on Christian Marriage at a later date.
"18. In political affairs, and all matters civil, the laws aim at securing the common good, and are not framed according to the delusive caprices and opinions of the mass of the people, but by truth and by justice; the ruling powers are invested with a sacredness more than human, and are withheld from deviating from the path of duty, and from overstepping the bounds of rightful authority; and the obedience is not the servitude of man to man, but submission to the will of God, exercising His sovereignty through the medium of men. Now, this being recognized as undeniable, it is felt that the high office of rulers should be held in respect; that public authority should be constantly and faithfully obeyed; that no act of sedition should be committed; and that the civic order of the commonwealth should be maintained as sacred. "
Kevin Tierney: The law is not an attempt at social engineering. The law is not neccessarily something all people like. The foundation of law is independent of personal opinions, but founded upon truth and justice. When we elect people in America, in the end, we must realize these are the primary reasons we elect people, who will do the best job at upholding the truth and justice of promoting the Gospel? If we truly look for improving our society, we cannot say that I am an American first, a Catholic second.
"21. There was once a time when States were governed by the philosophy of the Gospel. Then it was that the power and divine virtue of Christian wisdom had diffused itself throughout the laws, institutions, and morals of the people, permeating all ranks and relations of civil society. Then, too, the religion instituted by Jesus Christ, established firmly in befitting dignity, flourished everywhere, by the favor of princes and the legitimate protection of magistrates; and Church and State were happily united in concord and friendly interchange of good offices. The State, constituted in this wise, bore fruits important beyond all expectation, whose remembrance is still, and always will be, in renown, witnessed to as they are by countless proofs which can never be blotted out or ever obscured by any craft of any enemies. Christian Europe has subdued barbarous nations, and changed them from a savage to a civilized condition, from superstition to true worship. It victoriously rolled back the tide of Mohammedan conquest; retained the headship of civilization; stood forth in the front rank as the leader and teacher of all, in every branch of national culture; bestowed on the world the gift of true and many-sided liberty; and most wisely founded very numerous institutions for the solace of human suffering. And if we inquire how it was able to bring about so altered a condition of things, the answer is -- beyond all question, in large measure, through religion, under whose auspices so many great undertakings were set on foot, through whose aid they were brought to completion. "
I will not comment much on excactly what is said here, since I believe the words speak for themselves. I only reproduce them for the reader.
"24. Amongst these principles the main one lays down that as all men are alike by race and nature, so in like manner all are equal in the control of their life; that each one is so far his own master as to be in no sense under the rule of any other individual; that each is free to think on every subject just as he may choose, and to do whatever he may like to do; that no man has any right to rule over other men. In a society grounded upon such maxims all government is nothing more nor less than the will of the people, and the people, being under the power of itself alone, is alone its own ruler. It does choose, nevertheless, some to whose charge it may commit itself, but in such wise that it makes over to them not the right so much as the business of governing, to be exercised, however, in its name.
25. The authority of God is passed over in silence, just as if there were no God; or as if He cared nothing for human society; or as if men, whether in their individual capacity or bound together in social relations, owed nothing to God; or as if there could be a government of which the whole origin and power and authority did not reside in God Himself. Thus, as is evident, a State becomes nothing but a multitude which is its own master and ruler. And since the people is declared to contain within itself the spring-head of all rights and of all power, it follows that the State does not consider itself bound by any kind of duty toward God. Moreover. it believes that it is not obliged to make public profession of any religion; or to inquire which of the very many religions is the only one true; or to prefer one religion to all the rest; or to show to any form of religion special favor; but, on the contrary, is bound to grant equal rights to every creed, so that public order may not be disturbed by any particular form of religious belief. "
Kevin Tierney: Here Leo begins point out, and condeming these errors of modern society, which he already showed to be not that modern at all. The Instability of the Protestant Reformation in the religious sphere naturally fell into the political sphere, as Protestantism's central lack of authority made it's adherents essentially advance for something like this in State. This went hand in hand with the so called "Enlightenment" where men were enlightened to the fact God is dead, and he really need not be in our society.
The first error is the error that since men are alike in race and nature, they are alike in what they should do with their life. In short, authority rests with them, not with God, in political life. They appoint representatives solely to represent the will of the people, not neccessarily the will of justice and truth.
The next error he outlines is the modern states silence on the issue of God. As brilliantly demostrated in the previous commentary on the nature of Civil Power, Leo XIII proves that if God is not involved in the State, there is nothing that ultimately checks state. Even our founding Fathers, Catholics they weren't, recognized this simple principle, that the basic rights of man come from God, not from government, and that they who rule must rule on the principles of God.(Understanding this basic rule by no means says they applied it correctly.) This is why the liberal state with it's big government has now launched all out war against Christianity, as David Limbaugh so masterfully documents in his Book "Persecution: How Liberals are waging war against Christianity." A state left unchecked by the infinite wisdom of God, essentially becomes a government out of control.
"27. Now, when the State rests on foundations like those just named -- and for the time being they are greatly in favor -- it readily appears into what and how unrightful a position the Church is driven. For, when the management of public business is in harmony with doctrines of such a kind, the Catholic religion is allowed a standing in civil society equal only, or inferior, to societies alien from it; no regard is paid to the laws of the Church, and she who, by the order and commission of Jesus Christ, has the duty of teaching all nations, finds herself forbidden to take any part in the instruction of the people. With reference to matters that are of twofold jurisdiction, they who administer the civil power lay down the law at their own will, and in matters that appertain to religion defiantly put aside the most sacred decrees of the Church. They claim jurisdiction over the marriages of Catholics, even over the bond as well as the unity and the indissolubility of matrimony. They lay hands on the goods of the clergy, contending that the Church cannot possess property. Lastly, they treat the Church with such arrogance that, rejecting entirely her title to the nature and rights of a perfect society, they hold that she differs in no respect from other societies in the State, and for this reason possesses no right nor any legal power of action, save that which she holds by the concession and favor of the government. If in any State the Church retains her own agreement publicly entered into by the two powers, men forthwith begin to cry out that matters affecting the Church must be separated from those of the State. "
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII states the obvious here. As Catholics, we cannot prefer this concept of state, which sounds strikingly similar to today's notion of state. Not only does the Church suffer in bringing souls to Christ, but society suffers in that it no longer has the sound Juedo-Christian principles we find in the Gospels, and in the teachings of the Church century after century. These principles are tried and true. The line is clearly drawn in the sand. On one hand, there is the modern notion of state, with it's gigantic government, it's independence of God, it's destruction of economy(who can argue that the expanse in government authority has greatly benefited the economic sphere) and it's civil tyranny(now 9 priests in black robes decide what is and isn't moral) or the prinicples of the Gospel, which favors no specific form of government, but mandates that it's principles be met, for the betterment of society. The Christian soul cannot choose both.
"29. Accordingly, it has become the practice and determination under this condition of public polity (now so much admired by many) either to forbid the action of the Church altogether, or to keep her in check and bondage to the State. Public enactments are in great measure framed with this design. The drawing up of laws, the administration of State affairs, the godless education of youth, the spoliation and suppression of religious orders, the overthrow of the temporal power of the Roman Pontiff, all alike aim to this one end -- to paralyze the action of Christian institutions, to cramp to the utmost the freedom of the Catholic Church, and to curtail her ever single prerogative. "
Kevin Tierney: I need only say one can see the results of people's rights and freedoms when the State is left unchecked by the religious sphere, and the people are left to their own devices.
"31. The sovereignty of the people, however, and this without any reference to God, is held to reside in the multitude; which is doubtless a doctrine exceedingly well calculated to flatter and to inflame many passions, but which lacks all reasonable proof, and all power of insuring public safety and preserving order. Indeed, from the prevalence of this teaching, things have come to such a pass that may hold as an axiom of civil jurisprudence that seditions may be rightfully fostered. For the opinion prevails that princes are nothing more than delegates chosen to carry out the will of the people; whence it necessarily follows that all things are as changeable as the will of the people, so that risk of public disturbance is ever hanging over our heads.
To hold, therefore, that there is no difference in matters of religion between forms that are unlike each other, and even contrary to each other, most clearly leads in the end to the rejection of all religion in both theory and practice. And this is the same thing as atheism, however it may differ from it in name. Men who really believe in the existence of God must, in order to be consistent with themselves and to avoid absurd conclusions, understand that differing modes of divine worship involving dissimilarity and conflict even on most important points cannot all be equally probable, equally good, and equally acceptable to God. "
Kevin Tierney: The idea of absolute freedom of speech is an inherent danger to a state. Many wrongly attribute this to America. But what about the first amendment Kevin? This can be simply shown that in times of peril, not everything is indeed justifiable to say. Treason is not something that is protected by freedom of speech. It is only logical that a state be able to protect itself from.
Likewise, as believers in God, we can believe that while we cannot force people to agree with us, we must realize the worship of God has profound implications on society. Being consistent, these impact society, so we must obviously promote the truth fo the Catholic Church in society, of this we have no choice.
"33. To wish the Church to be subject to the civil power in the exercise of her duty is a great folly and a sheer injustice. Whenever this is the case, order is disturbed, for things natural are put above things supernatural; the many benefits which the Church, if free to act, would confer on society are either prevented or at least lessened in number; and a way is prepared for enmities and contentions between the two powers, with how evil result to both the issue of events has taught us only too frequently. "
Kevin Tierney: I would almost argue the war to separate Church and State has been engineered by none other than the Evil one himself. Pit the created order against itself. A State that doesn't have the Church to balance it will logically want to fill that void. That would give the state absolute power though. To accomplish this, many advocate the Church to be subject to the State. The Church then operates at the State's good pleasure, giving the state total power. Yet as they say, absolute power corrupts absolutely.
"44. Furthermore, it is in general fitting and salutary that Catholics should extend their efforts beyond this restricted sphere, and give their attention to national politics. We say "in general" because these Our precepts are addressed to all nations. However, it may in some places be true that, for most urgent and just reasons, it is by no means expedient for Catholics to engage in public affairs or to take an active part in politics. Nevertheless, as We have laid down, to take no share in public matters would be as wrong as to have no concern for, or to bestow no labor upon, the common good, and the more so because Catholics are admonished, by the very doctrines which they profess, to be upright and faithful in the discharge of duty, while, if they hold aloof, men whose principles offer but small guarantee for the welfare of the State will the more readily seize the reins of government. This would tend also to the injury of the Christian religion, forasmuch as those would come into power who are badly disposed toward the Church, and those who are willing to befriend her would be deprived of all influence. "
As I noted before, since the Church is the ultimate friend of a healthy state, her members should look for ways to get involved in that state, as best as they can. There are certainly times where such is not expedient, but these are exceptions, not the rule. Let us remember this, as we truly strive to build a culture built upon Christ.
Stay tuned for our next commentary on the neccessary foundation for promoting this healthy society, that of the Christian concept of marriage.
The Catholic Church is primarily a religious organization. We seek, ultimately, the salvation of souls, and telling those souls of the truth of spending eternal happiness with Allmighty God in heaven. As faithful Catholics, that is our first goal. Yet Catholics are salt to the Earth as well. This salt also carries over into the temporal atmosphere, the enviroment of politics, social issues, and many others. Indeed, I believe it is a worthy and noble task for the role of a Catholic politician if he adheres to Catholic teaching, as he and he alone will do the best job of championing the true rights of people. Leo XIII goes into this temporal role of the Church in Immortale Dei, which we shall take a look at. His pontificate is probably best known for his work Rerum Novarum. Yet I honestly feel that Rerum Novarum cannot be understood, unless all the other encyclicals of a social issue are also covered. All the social issues Leo XIII tackles I think can honestly be seen as their culmination in Rerum Novarum. This is why that encyclical will be the last one Culture of Christ covers. Let us begin to look at what Leo XIII states.
"The Catholic Church, that imperishable handiwork of our all-merciful God, has for her immediate and natural purpose the saving of souls and securing our happiness in heaven. Yet, in regard to things temporal, she is the source of benefits as manifold and great as if the chief end of her existence were to ensure the prospering of our earthly life. And, indeed, wherever the Church has set her foot she has straightway changed the face of things, and has attempered the moral tone of the people with a new civilization and with virtues before unknown. All nations which have yielded to her sway have become eminent by their gentleness, their sense of justice, and the glory of their high deeds. "
Kevin Tierney: As always, Leo XIII starts out with a very plain, simple teaching, the Catholic Church is mankinds greatest hope. On the issues which effect mankind, the Catholic Church has always been the champion of those who seek good. Even in todays war against abortion, the most formiddable opponents of the abortion lobby are not Jerry Falwell, not Chuck Colson, but indeed, courages Catholic leaders and pundits, whose strength and fortitude are widley respected in this war.
"2. And yet a hackneyed reproach of old date is leveled against her, that the Church is opposed to the rightful aims of the civil government, and is wholly unable to afford help in spreading that welfare and progress which justly and naturally are sought after by every well-regulated State. From the very beginning Christians were harassed by slanderous accusations of this nature, and on that account were held up to hatred and execration, for being (so they were called) enemies of the Empire. The Christian religion was moreover commonly charged with being the cause of the calamities that so frequently befell the State, whereas, in very truth, just punishment was being awarded to guilty nations by an avenging God. This odious calumny, with most valid reason, nerved the genius and sharpened the pen of St. Augustine, who, notably in his treatise, "The City of God," set forth in so bright a light the worth of Christian wisdom in its relation to the public wealth that he seems not merely to have pleaded the cause of the Christians of his day, but to have refuted for all future times impeachments so grossly contrary to truth."
Kevin Tierney: There is nothing new under the sun, and this is a perfect example. Even from the beginnings of Christianity on that blessed day at Pentecost, the idea of state has attempted to proclaim that Christianity is her adversary, rather than her most precious ally. As St. Justin Martyr so eloquently stated in his apology to the Emporer, Christians are moral people, who promote following most of the rules of State. Therefore, they are good citizens, willing to advance the greatness of the country they live in. The only thing they do is order it based on God's infinite wisdom, not man's ever-changing heart. When states heeding this advice, they always prospered. Civilization's most enlightened times happened under Christian rule. Civilization thrived, and savagery was condemned.
"The wicked proneness, however, to levy like charges and accusations has not been lulled to rest. Many, indeed, are they who have tried to work out a plan of civil society based on doctrines other than those approved by the Catholic Church. Nay, in these latter days a novel conception of law has begun here and there to gain increase and influence, the outcome, as it is maintained, of an age arrived at full stature, and the result of progressive liberty. But, though endeavors of various kinds have been ventured on, it is clear that no better mode has been devised for the building up and ruling the State than that which is the necessary growth of the teachings of the Gospel. We deem it, therefore, of the highest moment, and a strict duty of Our apostolic office, to contrast with the lessons taught by Christ the novel theories now advanced touching the State. By this means We cherish hope that the bright shining of the truth may scatter the mists of error and doubt, so that one and all may see clearly the imperious law of life which they are bound to follow and obey."
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII goes right to the heart of the manner. He is stating the current errors of thought, are not neccessarily new, but just rehashing of old errors with a new spin on them. The modern state believes these goals can now be achieved, because of it's enlightened age, and it's "progressive liberty." The Pontiff realizes that cross and crown cannot truly be separated, and shows how the teaching of the cross, greatly contrasts the teaching of the modern crown in his day, and his teachings have just as much relevance for today as they did a century ago, as has already been demonstrated in the previous commentaries.
"6. As a consequence, the State, constituted as it is, is clearly bound to act up to the manifold and weighty duties linking it to God, by the public profession of religion. Nature and reason, which command every individual devoutly to worship God in holiness, because we belong to Him and must return to Him, since from Him we came, bind also the civil community by a like law. For, men living together in society are under the power of God no less than individuals are, and society, no less than individuals, owes gratitude to God who gave it being and maintains it and whose everbounteous goodness enriches it with countless blessings. Since, then, no one is allowed to be remiss in the service due to God, and since the chief duty of all men is to cling to religion in both its teaching and practice-not such religion as they may have a preference for, but the religion which God enjoins, and which certain and most clear marks show to be the only one true religion -- it is a public crime to act as though there were no God. So, too, is it a sin for the State not to have care for religion as a something beyond its scope, or as of no practical benefit; or out of many forms of religion to adopt that one which chimes in with the fancy; for we are bound absolutely to worship God in that way which He has shown to be His will. All who rule, therefore, would hold in honor the holy name of God, and one of their chief duties must be to favor religion, to protect it, to shield it under the credit and sanction of the laws, and neither to organize nor enact any measure that may compromise its safety. This is the bounden duty of rulers to the people over whom they rule. For one and all are we destined by our birth and adoption to enjoy, when this frail and fleeting life is ended, a supreme and final good in heaven, and to the attainment of this every endeavor should be directed. Since, then, upon this depends the full and perfect happiness of mankind, the securing of this end should be of all imaginable interests the most urgent. Hence, civil society, established for the common welfare, should not only safeguard the wellbeing of the community, but have also at heart the interests of its individual members, in such mode as not in any way to hinder, but in every manner to render as easy as may be, the possession of that highest and unchangeable good for which all should seek. Wherefore, for this purpose, care must especially be taken to preserve unharmed and unimpeded the religion whereof the practice is the link connecting man with God. "
Kevin Tierney: I can gaurentee many of my American readers are finding this statement a little tough to swallow. Athiesm a danger to society, and recomended as a punishable crime? Yet let us Catholics really examine this issue. As Catholics, we realize that we alone can give the Gospel in it's fullness, leading to the salvation of souls, thanks be to God. The message of the Gospel is for all aspects of life, to truly better it to give service to God. This includes the political, economic, and social sphere. Would we not want a staunchly Catholic presence giving these teachings of true liberty and prosperity, so our country would truly be great? As we will see elsewhere, Leo XIII realizes at times of expediency, this situation may not be realized. Right now, this I believe is one of those times, but that does not mean we should just accept that. We are to always work to bring about this right situation, as no battle is won overnight or without hardship.
"13. The Almighty, therefore, has given the charge of the human race to two powers, the ecclesiastical and the civil, the one being set over divine, and the other over human, things. Each in its kind is supreme, each has fixed limits within which it is contained, limits which are defined by the nature and special object of the province of each, so that there is, we may say, an orbit traced out within which the action of each is brought into play by its own native right. But, inasmuch as each of these two powers has authority over the same subjects, and as it might come to pass that one and the same thing -- related differently, but still remaining one and the same thing -- might belong to the jurisdiction and determination of both, therefore God, who foresees all things, and who is the author of these two powers, has marked out the course of each in right correlation to the other. "For the powers that are, are ordained of God."[17] Were this not so, deplorable contentions and conflicts would often arise, and, not infrequently, men, like travelers at the meeting of two roads, would hesitate in anxiety and doubt, not knowing what course to follow. Two powers would be commanding contrary things, and it would be a dereliction of duty to disobey either of the two. "
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII here brilliantly outlines how Church and State, each having the same creator, for different means, must work together for perfect harmony. The 20th century can be summarily marked as one of the centuries where God was indeed absent from the State, and it has without a doubt been the most destructive century mankind has endured. This is a message from God, that both spheres he has created are indeed good, when used for noble purposes.
"14. But it would be most repugnant to them to think thus of the wisdom and goodness of God. Even in physical things, albeit of a lower order, the Almighty has so combined the forces and springs of nature with tempered action and wondrous harmony that no one of them clashes with any other, and all of them most fitly and aptly work together for the great purpose of the universe. There must, accordingly, exist between these two powers a certain orderly connection, which may be compared to the union of the soul and body in man. The nature and scope of that connection can be determined only, as We have laid down, by having regard to the nature of each power, and by taking account of the relative excellence and nobleness of their purpose. One of the two has for its proximate and chief object the well-being of this mortal life; the other, the everlasting joys of heaven. Whatever, therefore in things human is of a sacred character, whatever belongs either of its own nature or by reason of the end to which it is referred, to the salvation of souls, or to the worship of God, is subject to the power and judgment of the Church. Whatever is to be ranged under the civil and political order is rightly subject to the civil authority. Jesus Christ has Himself given command that what is Caesar's is to be rendered to Caesar, and that what belongs to God is to be rendered to God. "
Kevin Tierney: We can see where Pope Leo is taking this. He is outlining the distinctions and differences between the civil and religious. Now there are many liberals, even within Catholic circles, who believe that because of these differences, they should be absolutely separate. Yet as we know, the mortal well-being and the spiritual well-being are things which while separate, cannot be absolutely separated. They are distinct institutions, but they cannot work independently of each other, since many times, their goals will overlap. The State's promotion of mortal well-being and adherence to it's authority Christian principles well respect, so it would certainly be expedient for the State to seek out Christian principles on which to govern. Likewise, the Church is looking to preach the Gospel as often as possible, and State can provide such situations where this is to occur.
"17. In such organization of the State there is nothing that can be thought to infringe upon the dignity of rulers, and nothing unbecoming them; nay, so far from degrading the sovereign power in its due rights, it adds to it permanence and luster. Indeed, when more fully pondered, this mutual coordination has a perfection in which all other forms of government are lacking, and from which excellent results would flow, were the several component parts to keep their place and duly discharge the office and work appointed respectively for each. And, doubtless, in the constitution of the State such as We have described, divine and human things are equitably shared; the rights of citizens assured to them, and fenced round by divine, by natural, and by human law; the duties incumbent on each one being wisely marked out, and their fulfillment fittingly insured. In their uncertain and toilsome journey to the everlasting city all see that they have safe guides and helpers on their way, and are conscious that others have charge to protect their persons alike and their possessions, and to obtain or preserve for them everything essential for their present life. Furthermore, domestic society acquires that firmness and solidity so needful to it from the holiness of marriage, one and indissoluble, wherein the rights and duties of husband and wife are controlled with wise justice and equity; due honor is assured to the woman; the authority of the husband is conformed to the pattern afforded by the authority of God; the power of the father is tempered by a due regard for the dignity of the mother and her offspring; and the best possible provision is made for the guardianship, welfare, and education of the children. "
Kevin Tierney: Pope Leo points out one area that indeed, Church and state cannot truly separate and function justly, that of marriage. A married family that has stability at home, the kind which Christian marriage indeed promotes. Marriage is primarily a pact before God. The State recognizes this pact, realizing in the end, these healthy, stable homes contribute greatly to Society. Therefore, the State should indeed promote, and recognize such marriages, since State's primary goal is not to "give the people what they want" but to ensure those people's well being. We will be covering Leo XIII's teaching on Christian Marriage at a later date.
"18. In political affairs, and all matters civil, the laws aim at securing the common good, and are not framed according to the delusive caprices and opinions of the mass of the people, but by truth and by justice; the ruling powers are invested with a sacredness more than human, and are withheld from deviating from the path of duty, and from overstepping the bounds of rightful authority; and the obedience is not the servitude of man to man, but submission to the will of God, exercising His sovereignty through the medium of men. Now, this being recognized as undeniable, it is felt that the high office of rulers should be held in respect; that public authority should be constantly and faithfully obeyed; that no act of sedition should be committed; and that the civic order of the commonwealth should be maintained as sacred. "
Kevin Tierney: The law is not an attempt at social engineering. The law is not neccessarily something all people like. The foundation of law is independent of personal opinions, but founded upon truth and justice. When we elect people in America, in the end, we must realize these are the primary reasons we elect people, who will do the best job at upholding the truth and justice of promoting the Gospel? If we truly look for improving our society, we cannot say that I am an American first, a Catholic second.
"21. There was once a time when States were governed by the philosophy of the Gospel. Then it was that the power and divine virtue of Christian wisdom had diffused itself throughout the laws, institutions, and morals of the people, permeating all ranks and relations of civil society. Then, too, the religion instituted by Jesus Christ, established firmly in befitting dignity, flourished everywhere, by the favor of princes and the legitimate protection of magistrates; and Church and State were happily united in concord and friendly interchange of good offices. The State, constituted in this wise, bore fruits important beyond all expectation, whose remembrance is still, and always will be, in renown, witnessed to as they are by countless proofs which can never be blotted out or ever obscured by any craft of any enemies. Christian Europe has subdued barbarous nations, and changed them from a savage to a civilized condition, from superstition to true worship. It victoriously rolled back the tide of Mohammedan conquest; retained the headship of civilization; stood forth in the front rank as the leader and teacher of all, in every branch of national culture; bestowed on the world the gift of true and many-sided liberty; and most wisely founded very numerous institutions for the solace of human suffering. And if we inquire how it was able to bring about so altered a condition of things, the answer is -- beyond all question, in large measure, through religion, under whose auspices so many great undertakings were set on foot, through whose aid they were brought to completion. "
I will not comment much on excactly what is said here, since I believe the words speak for themselves. I only reproduce them for the reader.
"24. Amongst these principles the main one lays down that as all men are alike by race and nature, so in like manner all are equal in the control of their life; that each one is so far his own master as to be in no sense under the rule of any other individual; that each is free to think on every subject just as he may choose, and to do whatever he may like to do; that no man has any right to rule over other men. In a society grounded upon such maxims all government is nothing more nor less than the will of the people, and the people, being under the power of itself alone, is alone its own ruler. It does choose, nevertheless, some to whose charge it may commit itself, but in such wise that it makes over to them not the right so much as the business of governing, to be exercised, however, in its name.
25. The authority of God is passed over in silence, just as if there were no God; or as if He cared nothing for human society; or as if men, whether in their individual capacity or bound together in social relations, owed nothing to God; or as if there could be a government of which the whole origin and power and authority did not reside in God Himself. Thus, as is evident, a State becomes nothing but a multitude which is its own master and ruler. And since the people is declared to contain within itself the spring-head of all rights and of all power, it follows that the State does not consider itself bound by any kind of duty toward God. Moreover. it believes that it is not obliged to make public profession of any religion; or to inquire which of the very many religions is the only one true; or to prefer one religion to all the rest; or to show to any form of religion special favor; but, on the contrary, is bound to grant equal rights to every creed, so that public order may not be disturbed by any particular form of religious belief. "
Kevin Tierney: Here Leo begins point out, and condeming these errors of modern society, which he already showed to be not that modern at all. The Instability of the Protestant Reformation in the religious sphere naturally fell into the political sphere, as Protestantism's central lack of authority made it's adherents essentially advance for something like this in State. This went hand in hand with the so called "Enlightenment" where men were enlightened to the fact God is dead, and he really need not be in our society.
The first error is the error that since men are alike in race and nature, they are alike in what they should do with their life. In short, authority rests with them, not with God, in political life. They appoint representatives solely to represent the will of the people, not neccessarily the will of justice and truth.
The next error he outlines is the modern states silence on the issue of God. As brilliantly demostrated in the previous commentary on the nature of Civil Power, Leo XIII proves that if God is not involved in the State, there is nothing that ultimately checks state. Even our founding Fathers, Catholics they weren't, recognized this simple principle, that the basic rights of man come from God, not from government, and that they who rule must rule on the principles of God.(Understanding this basic rule by no means says they applied it correctly.) This is why the liberal state with it's big government has now launched all out war against Christianity, as David Limbaugh so masterfully documents in his Book "Persecution: How Liberals are waging war against Christianity." A state left unchecked by the infinite wisdom of God, essentially becomes a government out of control.
"27. Now, when the State rests on foundations like those just named -- and for the time being they are greatly in favor -- it readily appears into what and how unrightful a position the Church is driven. For, when the management of public business is in harmony with doctrines of such a kind, the Catholic religion is allowed a standing in civil society equal only, or inferior, to societies alien from it; no regard is paid to the laws of the Church, and she who, by the order and commission of Jesus Christ, has the duty of teaching all nations, finds herself forbidden to take any part in the instruction of the people. With reference to matters that are of twofold jurisdiction, they who administer the civil power lay down the law at their own will, and in matters that appertain to religion defiantly put aside the most sacred decrees of the Church. They claim jurisdiction over the marriages of Catholics, even over the bond as well as the unity and the indissolubility of matrimony. They lay hands on the goods of the clergy, contending that the Church cannot possess property. Lastly, they treat the Church with such arrogance that, rejecting entirely her title to the nature and rights of a perfect society, they hold that she differs in no respect from other societies in the State, and for this reason possesses no right nor any legal power of action, save that which she holds by the concession and favor of the government. If in any State the Church retains her own agreement publicly entered into by the two powers, men forthwith begin to cry out that matters affecting the Church must be separated from those of the State. "
Kevin Tierney: Leo XIII states the obvious here. As Catholics, we cannot prefer this concept of state, which sounds strikingly similar to today's notion of state. Not only does the Church suffer in bringing souls to Christ, but society suffers in that it no longer has the sound Juedo-Christian principles we find in the Gospels, and in the teachings of the Church century after century. These principles are tried and true. The line is clearly drawn in the sand. On one hand, there is the modern notion of state, with it's gigantic government, it's independence of God, it's destruction of economy(who can argue that the expanse in government authority has greatly benefited the economic sphere) and it's civil tyranny(now 9 priests in black robes decide what is and isn't moral) or the prinicples of the Gospel, which favors no specific form of government, but mandates that it's principles be met, for the betterment of society. The Christian soul cannot choose both.
"29. Accordingly, it has become the practice and determination under this condition of public polity (now so much admired by many) either to forbid the action of the Church altogether, or to keep her in check and bondage to the State. Public enactments are in great measure framed with this design. The drawing up of laws, the administration of State affairs, the godless education of youth, the spoliation and suppression of religious orders, the overthrow of the temporal power of the Roman Pontiff, all alike aim to this one end -- to paralyze the action of Christian institutions, to cramp to the utmost the freedom of the Catholic Church, and to curtail her ever single prerogative. "
Kevin Tierney: I need only say one can see the results of people's rights and freedoms when the State is left unchecked by the religious sphere, and the people are left to their own devices.
"31. The sovereignty of the people, however, and this without any reference to God, is held to reside in the multitude; which is doubtless a doctrine exceedingly well calculated to flatter and to inflame many passions, but which lacks all reasonable proof, and all power of insuring public safety and preserving order. Indeed, from the prevalence of this teaching, things have come to such a pass that may hold as an axiom of civil jurisprudence that seditions may be rightfully fostered. For the opinion prevails that princes are nothing more than delegates chosen to carry out the will of the people; whence it necessarily follows that all things are as changeable as the will of the people, so that risk of public disturbance is ever hanging over our heads.
To hold, therefore, that there is no difference in matters of religion between forms that are unlike each other, and even contrary to each other, most clearly leads in the end to the rejection of all religion in both theory and practice. And this is the same thing as atheism, however it may differ from it in name. Men who really believe in the existence of God must, in order to be consistent with themselves and to avoid absurd conclusions, understand that differing modes of divine worship involving dissimilarity and conflict even on most important points cannot all be equally probable, equally good, and equally acceptable to God. "
Kevin Tierney: The idea of absolute freedom of speech is an inherent danger to a state. Many wrongly attribute this to America. But what about the first amendment Kevin? This can be simply shown that in times of peril, not everything is indeed justifiable to say. Treason is not something that is protected by freedom of speech. It is only logical that a state be able to protect itself from.
Likewise, as believers in God, we can believe that while we cannot force people to agree with us, we must realize the worship of God has profound implications on society. Being consistent, these impact society, so we must obviously promote the truth fo the Catholic Church in society, of this we have no choice.
"33. To wish the Church to be subject to the civil power in the exercise of her duty is a great folly and a sheer injustice. Whenever this is the case, order is disturbed, for things natural are put above things supernatural; the many benefits which the Church, if free to act, would confer on society are either prevented or at least lessened in number; and a way is prepared for enmities and contentions between the two powers, with how evil result to both the issue of events has taught us only too frequently. "
Kevin Tierney: I would almost argue the war to separate Church and State has been engineered by none other than the Evil one himself. Pit the created order against itself. A State that doesn't have the Church to balance it will logically want to fill that void. That would give the state absolute power though. To accomplish this, many advocate the Church to be subject to the State. The Church then operates at the State's good pleasure, giving the state total power. Yet as they say, absolute power corrupts absolutely.
"44. Furthermore, it is in general fitting and salutary that Catholics should extend their efforts beyond this restricted sphere, and give their attention to national politics. We say "in general" because these Our precepts are addressed to all nations. However, it may in some places be true that, for most urgent and just reasons, it is by no means expedient for Catholics to engage in public affairs or to take an active part in politics. Nevertheless, as We have laid down, to take no share in public matters would be as wrong as to have no concern for, or to bestow no labor upon, the common good, and the more so because Catholics are admonished, by the very doctrines which they profess, to be upright and faithful in the discharge of duty, while, if they hold aloof, men whose principles offer but small guarantee for the welfare of the State will the more readily seize the reins of government. This would tend also to the injury of the Christian religion, forasmuch as those would come into power who are badly disposed toward the Church, and those who are willing to befriend her would be deprived of all influence. "
As I noted before, since the Church is the ultimate friend of a healthy state, her members should look for ways to get involved in that state, as best as they can. There are certainly times where such is not expedient, but these are exceptions, not the rule. Let us remember this, as we truly strive to build a culture built upon Christ.
Stay tuned for our next commentary on the neccessary foundation for promoting this healthy society, that of the Christian concept of marriage.
