Politics and the Dignity of the Person: John Paul II’s Call for Charity, by Ryan Bilodeau

By Ryan Bilodeau, Catholic Exchange, Nov. 4, 2024

Ryan Bilodeau is a Theology teacher at Bishop Brady High School in Concord, NH. Beyond the classroom, he extends his passion for Catholicism by assisting parishes and Catholic organizations in enhancing their digital outreach. Ryan’s latest venture, the Catholic Cases app, serves as a tool for Catholics facing moral quandaries. A proud resident of Maine, Ryan cherishes his marriage to his beautiful wife, Ann. Outside of work, Ryan’s interests span across politics, marketing, and Boston sports.

Drawing on the wisdom of St. John Paul II, we must ask: how can we restore the Catholic principles of solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good in a political climate that thrives on division?

As Catholics, we are entrusted with the responsibility of bringing our faith into the public square. Yet, as this election season unfolds, political discourse seems to have lost its moral compass, focusing more on defeating enemies than building a just society. Drawing on the wisdom of St. John Paul II, we must ask: how can we restore the Catholic principles of solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good in a political climate that thrives on division?

John Paul II, one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, offers a path forward. His theological teachings—especially those on human dignity, truth, and the sanctity of life—provide a framework for navigating today’s polarized political landscape. Rather than seeing politics as an arena for domination, John Paul II reminds us that it is a means to secure justice and uphold the dignity of every human being. His insights, found in works like Centesimus Annus and Evangelium Vitae, call us to a higher standard of political engagement, one that is rooted in respect for truth and the personhood of all, including those with whom we disagree. …

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