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PEACE

The Biblical concept of peace goes beyond the absence of conflict. It is a state of wholeness or well being both at the personal and the communal levels. Peace comes from living in right relationship with God, oneself, others, and the whole of creation.

Catholic teaching makes a strong presumption against the use of force, but also considers the use of force acceptable as a last resort in certain limited circumstances. It contains both non violent and just war strands.

If you Want to Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation
Benedict XVI's message for the World Day of Peace 2010.
Five Stars of Peace powerpoint highlighting themes from the message.

“It is our clear duty, then, to strain every muscle as we work for the time when all war can be completely outlawed by international consent.”

Vatican II, Gaudium et Spes, n 82

“If peace is to be established, the primary requisite is to eradicate the causes of dissension between [people]. Wars thrive on these, especially on injustice ...”

Vatican II, Gaudium et Spes, n 83

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