On the Necessity of Seeking the Supreme Good in Social and Political Discourse

Carissimi

As we approach the significant milestones of the upcoming General Election in the UK (July 4th) and the Presidential Election in the USA (November 5th), it is imperative that we, as faithful Catholics, engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in the political process. These elections present us with the opportunity to influence the direction of our societies profoundly. Our involvement must transcend the pursuit of the common good and aim toward the supreme good of our neighbours—their eternal salvation and a closer relationship with God.

In the complex and often contentious landscape of modern politics, we must remember that our mission is rooted in a love that goes beyond mere niceness or tolerance. The sacrificial nature of God’s love sometimes requires “tough love” for the sake of a soul. As Pope Pius XI reminded us in Quadragesimo Anno¹, the pursuit of the common good must always be linked to the higher aim of the supreme good—the salvation of souls and a deep, personal relationship with God. While we work to improve societal conditions, we must be mindful of our neighbors’ ultimate spiritual destiny.

In contemporary discourse, love is often equated with being nice, tolerant, and non-confrontational. However, true Christian love is profoundly sacrificial and seeks the true good of the other, even when it demands personal sacrifice or confrontation with uncomfortable truths. St. Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, urges us to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), aiming for the deeper transformation and salvation of the person rather than mere temporal comfort or happiness.

As we consider our voting decisions, it is crucial to engage with compassion and respect for all individuals, including those who live alternative lifestyles. We recognize their inherent dignity as potential children of God, but we also have a duty to guide them toward God’s purpose for their lives in harmony with His Commandments and divine revelation. St. Augustine wisely said, “Cum dilectione hominum et odio vitiorum”² (“With love for mankind and hatred of sins”). Our concern for the supreme good of these individuals means supporting and guiding them towards aligning their lives with the teachings of the Church.

The Great Commission calls us to “go and make disciples of all nations,” guiding our social and political endeavors with the ultimate goal of creating conditions where the Gospel can be freely proclaimed. This mandate should inspire our voting decisions, ensuring we advocate for laws and policies reflecting Christian values. As Pope Pius XII stated, “The Church does not wish to exercise political power or eliminate the freedom of opinion of Catholics concerning the different and contingent problems arising in civil life. But from her teaching authority, she has the right and duty to pronounce with supreme authority upon the rights and duties of men and nations.”³

When voting, we must seek to elevate and inspire others to reach their full potential as children of God. This can mean challenging prevailing cultural norms or personal behaviors that are contrary to the Gospel. For example, in issues of bioethics, marriage, and family life, we must uphold and promote the Church’s teachings, even when they are counter-cultural. As St. John Chrysostom taught, “Nothing is more frigid than a Christian who does not care about the salvation of others.”⁴

In this discernment, it is crucial to carefully examine political policies that may superficially appear to align with Catholic principles but may, in fact, contradict them. Prudence, a necessary virtue, requires us to be vigilant and discerning, ensuring that our informed conscience guides us toward the ultimate good, even if it follows a less direct or more challenging path. This diligence helps us avoid the comfortable yet misleading choices that could lead us away from the true good.

Pope Leo XIII, in his encyclical Immortale Dei, reminds us that “it is part of the office of a good citizen to strive to ensure the safety of the civil society in which he lives; it is likewise part of the duty of a good Christian to endeavor to make his influence felt in the public life of the community for the betterment of the state and for the welfare of souls”⁵. This timeless wisdom underscores the necessity of our active and informed participation in political life, guided by the principles of our faith.

As we prepare to cast our votes, let us remember our duty to seek the supreme good of our neighbors—their eternal salvation and a closer relationship with God. By leading, guiding, and inspiring others to higher ideals and purposes, we fulfill our duty to both the common good and the supreme good, transforming society in accordance with the principles of love, truth, and the Gospel. This holistic approach ensures that social policies align with the ultimate goal for human life and flourishing, benefiting both individuals and society as a whole.

May the Lord bless and guide us in our efforts to bring His love and truth to the world.

In Christ,

I.X.

Brichtelmestunensis
S. Augustini Episcopi et Confessoris MMXXIV A.D.

Oremus

1. Quadragesimo Anno Reconstruction of the Social Order (120) Pope Pius XI – 1931 ↩︎
2. St. Augustine, Letter 211 (5th century) ↩︎
3. Ad Apostolorum Principis Communism and the Church in China (46) Pope Pius XII – 1958 ↩︎
4. Homilies on Romans, Homily 9 (4th century) ↩︎
5. Immortale Dei On the Christian Constitution of States (6) Pope Leo XIII – 1885 ↩︎

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