Christian Citizenship & the Virtue of Patriotism
Many Christians may feel tempted to avoid politics and the division it can cause— yet, in reality, all of us are called to faithful citizenship. Through this course, learn how proclaiming the Gospel can include civic engagement.
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Course Breakdown
Section 1. Christian Citizenship
A virtuous family member makes a virtuous citizen. This filial piety flows from the fourth commandment to honor thy father and mother (CCC 22392240) corresponds to the virtue of patriotism; the latter reinforces the former. We participate in God's will when we honor our parents. Likewise, when we honor our country, we similar participate in God's will for society.
Lessons in this Section:
- The Family is the First Society
- Our Duty to Parents & Patria
- The Christian Principle of Concord
- Moral Development & Politics
Section 2. Practicing Patriotism
Like all virtues, patriotism is a habit which is nested in the goodness of God. It is distributed to you in a particular way, in a particular place, and intimately tied to your own goodness, which comes from God. The virtue of patriotism is connected to all the virtues, and for the Christian, all the virtues are united by divine charity. Thus, patriotism becomes an essential part of our love of neighbors flowing from our love of God.
Lessons in this Section:
- Protecting Marriage & The Family
- Prioritizing the Imago Dei
- Cultivating a Christian Nation
- Honoring America's Catholic Heritage
- Being Faithful Citizens
Meet Your Instructor
Dr. Chad Pecknold is a Professor of Historical & Systematic Theology in the School of Theology at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. Dr. Pecknold received his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge (UK) and is the author of a number of scholarly articles and books, including Christianity and Politics: A Brief Guide to the History,Fire on the Altar: Setting Our Souls Ablaze through St. Augustine's Confessions, and The T&T Clark Companion to Augustine and Modern Theology. Dr. Pecknold is also a frequent contributor to debates in the public square and is a regular contributor on EWTN News Nightly offering clear analysis and expert opinion on the Catholic Church, the papacy, and the relationship between the Church and politics in American culture.
