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A Commitment to Human Dignity and Restorative Justice
The Catholic Church has maintained a firm and evolving stance on the death penalty, emphasizing the dignity of human life and the call for mercy. Over the years, the last five Popes have contributed significantly to the development of this doctrine, making clear the Church’s rejection of capital punishment. In this article, we will explore the teachings and actions of these Pontiffs on this crucial issue.
The Polish Pope stressed that, although States have the right and duty to defend themselves, advances in the penitentiary system allow this defense to be achieved without resorting to execution. In public speeches and pastoral visits, John Paul II advocated for the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society, stressing the power of forgiveness and redemption.
Continued below.
www.exaudi.org
The Catholic Church has maintained a firm and evolving stance on the death penalty, emphasizing the dignity of human life and the call for mercy. Over the years, the last five Popes have contributed significantly to the development of this doctrine, making clear the Church’s rejection of capital punishment. In this article, we will explore the teachings and actions of these Pontiffs on this crucial issue.
St. John Paul II (1978-2005)
St. John Paul II was a fervent defender of life at all stages. In his encyclical Evangelium Vitae (1995), he stated that the death penalty should be extremely rare, if not practically nonexistent, considering that modern penitentiary systems can protect society without the need to execute the offender. In addition, on several occasions, he made specific calls to governments to reconsider death sentences, promoting a culture of life. His pontificate marked a turning point in the Church’s stance, moving further away from the acceptance of capital punishment.The Polish Pope stressed that, although States have the right and duty to defend themselves, advances in the penitentiary system allow this defense to be achieved without resorting to execution. In public speeches and pastoral visits, John Paul II advocated for the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society, stressing the power of forgiveness and redemption.
Benedict XVI (2005-2013)
Continued below.
The Catholic Church and the Death Penalty: Teachings and Actions of Recent Popes – Exaudi
A Commitment to Human Dignity and Restorative Justice
www.exaudi.org
