‘Veritatis Splendor’ at 30: Four Essential Truths Taught by St. John Paul II, by Carl E. Olson

Aug. 6 marks the 30th anniversary of St. John Paul II’s encyclical “Veritatis Splendor” (“The Splendor of Truth”). It is the first and only papal encyclical focused on moral theology. Its continued importance cannot be underestimated, even while its teachings are often overlooked or even ignored.

It is a rather dense document, making for difficult reading at times. But it is also very direct in addressing postconciliar confusion about foundational truths regarding morality, freedom and conscience. Here are four essential truths the pope taught through the encyclical.

1. Man can know the truth. Truth makes man what he is. We are called to know truth; it is truth that sets us free. …