Pope Francis has called on American Catholics to defend traditional marriage amid ongoing cultural attacks on the institution. In a letter to the Knights of Columbus as the Catholic body convened for its Supreme Convention in the state of Philadelphia, the Pontiff re-emphasised the importance of the Sacrament of Marriage as “a natural institution, a life-long covenant of love and fidelity between a man and a woman, directed to their perfection and sanctification, and to the future of our human family”.
According to Lifesite News, the Pontiff continued: “Today, when the institution of marriage is under attack from powerful cultural forces, the faithful are called to bear witness to this basic truth of biblical faith and natural law, which is essential to the wise and just ordering of society.” Issuing his letter in the wake of the US Supreme Court decision to redefine marriage, the Pope urged American Catholics to face the “moral, social and political challenges of the present hour” with “great wisdom and perseverance.”
Referencing freedom of religion – “understood not simply as the liberty to worship as one chooses, but also, for individuals and institutions, to speak and act in accordance with the dictates of their conscience” – as the“cornerstone” on which American freedoms was based, Pope Francis said: “To the extent that this [religious freedom] right is menaced, whether by invasive public policies, or by the growing influence of a culture which sets alleged personal rights above the common good, there is need for a mobilisation of consciences on the part of all those citizens who, regardless of party or creed, are concerned for the overall welfare of society.”