The Political Party of Christ
In today’s Gospel (Luke 9:7–9), we hear of Herod’s confusion about Jesus: “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” Just as people in Herod’s day struggled to understand Christ, many in our own time wrestle with what it means to follow Him faithfully in society and politics.
Fr. Chris Alar reminds us that Jesus was not executed for being silent—He was condemned because He challenged the political and religious powers of His day. The Catechism teaches: “It is part of the Church’s mission to pass moral judgments even in matters related to politics, whenever the fundamental rights of man or the salvation of souls requires it” (CCC 2246). To avoid the public square is not an option for Catholics when human dignity, marriage, and religious liberty are at stake.
The Bible itself is filled with examples of God’s people praying, interceding, and even legislating for their nations—Moses, Esther, Nehemiah, and Jeremiah all acted politically, guided by faith. Even the Greek word ecclesia, which Christ used in Matthew 16:18, referred to a governing assembly. Far from being irrelevant, our faith shapes how we engage in the laws and structures of society.
St. Faustina herself prayed earnestly for her country: “Most merciful Jesus… bless my native land. I beg You, Jesus, look not on our sins, but on the tears of little children” (Diary, 286). Jesus responded with compassion, affirming her intercession for her nation. If the Lord asked her to pray for her country, can we do any less?
Fr. Chris urges us to see that we belong to the “political party of Christ.” Not Democrat, not Republican—our allegiance is to Christ and His truth. We are called to be salt and light, transforming our nations through prayer, witness, and faithful action. Wherever you live, pray for your leaders, pray for your country, and work to bring Christ into the heart of your culture.
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