Within the Beatitudes, we read, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). We can understand this as a sending forth by Jesus – “You are Blessed as you go forth to do the work of Peacemaking; you will be recognized as Children of God, those who walk the Way of God, and do God’s will. “
The Beatitudes are often seen as a summary of Jesus’ teachings and life purpose. They very much express Jesus’ commitment to Nonviolence, and his calling us to this same commitment. Members of Pax Christi, a Catholic peace organization world-wide, including here in Canada, take this Beatitude very seriously.
In the light of this, we are deeply concerned that leaders of all the main Federal Parties in Canada are, once again, choosing to implement a further increase in military spending to reach a two per cent level of Canada’s GDP. Actually, the demand has now been raised by U.S. President Donald Trump to reach a five per cent level of GDP, and the leaders may eventually feel compelled to move towards that goal.
We cannot help but think of Jesus’ words to Peter, “Put your sword away. Those who live by the sword will die by the sword.”(Matt. 26:52) The belief that militarism will solve all the conflicts in the world is growing in many countries. Many billions of dollars, even trillions of dollars, are being spent on weapons to be used in wars. These include nuclear weapons which would destroy our planet as it is. While some defense to protect our country is necessary, the investment in militarism goes far beyond this.
We see the result of militarism, with deep pain and horror, in the news every day. The death and destruction in Gaza is an example. Canada’s investment in weapons contributes to this horror as we sell weapons to countries at war where human rights violations are frequent.
In the face of these realities, Pope Francis has been extremely vocal in his concerns around a war mentality, and he boldly decries war and the growing investment in weapons. He calls for the budgets for weapons to be used in life-giving directions such as education.
In our concern, we wish to call our political leaders to commit to the nonviolent path of Common Security where peace and security depend on all experiencing Security. This calls for ongoing cooperation, dialogue, diplomacy and proactive Conflict Transformation in the early stages of conflict. It is about building and preparing for Peace, rather than preparedness for War.
Here at home it would mean commitment to Climate Change alleviation and healing, protection of biodiversity, increased funding for healthcare, education, social services, poverty reduction and affordable housing for all, Indigenous rights and reconciliation, economic justice and equity. Internationally, it would mean commitment to meeting sustainable development goals, support for International and Humanitarian Law. It would mean collaboration with all nations in renewing and strengthening the United Nations. And it could mean withdrawing from the offensive military alliance, NATO.
We pray that Canadian citizens and leaders will choose this direction.
