“True patriotism never seeks to advance the well-being of one’s own nation at the expense of others. For in the end this would harm one’s own nation as well: doing wrong damages both aggressor and victim. Nationalism, particularly in its most radical forms, is thus the antithesis of true patriotism, and today we must ensure that extreme nationalism does not continue to give rise to new forms of the aberrations of totalitarianism.” 

Pope St. John Paul II, Address to the Fiftieth General Assembly of the United Nations Organization, New York, 5 October 1995.

“Let us dream, then, as a single human family, as fellow travelers sharing the same flesh, as children of the same earth which is our common home, each of us bringing the richness of his or her beliefs and convictions, each of us with his or her own voice, brothers and sisters all.”

Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti, October 3, 2020.

As we gather with friends and family in honor of our nation's birth, let’s take time to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our country and those lives lost to COVID-19.  May we dream together as a single family and nation and may we come together as communities not in isolation but looking ahead to enrich those in our country and our sisters and brothers around the world, so that all peoples may have the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness for which all yearn. 

The Catholic Charities USA Social Policy Team wishes you all a blessed and Happy Independence Day!