In a world fractured by terrible violence, from Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, and other places, the pursuit of peace seems more distant than ever. Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has lamented this “third world war fought piecemeal.” How can Catholics and people of good will answer the Gospel call: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God”? This Dahlgren Dialogue drew on the principles of Catholic social thought to explore what people of faith and others can do to respond to these crises and their immense human and moral costs.
This dialogue featured scholars, theologians, and grassroots voices who illuminated the moral imperatives of peacemaking in these troubled times, discussed the complexities of conflict resolution and use of force, and offered some possible pathways toward a more just and peaceful world. They addressed questions such as:
- How can the biblical call to justice and peace, Catholic social teaching, and moral principles on the use of force help us assess and respond to the horrific violence we see across the world today?
- What is the role of communities of faith, universities, and individuals in fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing in our broken world?
Rev. Andy Downing, S.J., director of Ignatian Programs in the Office of Mission & Ministry, opened the dialogue. Kim Daniels, director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life and member of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, moderated the dialogue.
Georgetown University’s Dahlgren Dialogues, co-sponsored by the Office of Mission & Ministry and the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life, are a series of substantive conversations with experienced leaders in the context of prayerful reflection on current topics at the intersection of faith and public life.
