Washington D.C., Oct 13, 2009 / 23:17 pm
Noting the “critical juncture” of the situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Bishop of Albany Howard J. Hubbard has written to the United States government’s National Security Advisor about the necessity of just restraint in warfare, the need to address the “root causes” of terrorism, and Catholic Relief Services’ experience in the region.
Bishop Hubbard’s October 6 letter to the National Security Council’s General James L. Jones, USMC (Ret.) was written on behalf of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on International Justice and Peace.
“While we are pastors and teachers and not military experts, we can share Catholic teaching and experience which may help inform various policy choices,” Bishop Hubbard wrote, noting that the Obama administration is reviewing U.S. strategy in Afghanistan.
The bishop’s letter referenced their pastoral message “Living with Faith and Hope after September 11.” He repeated its principles concerning restrained use of military force and the protection of civilians, focused attention to the “root causes” of terrorism instead of giving a solely military response, and encouragement of international collaboration to provide humanitarian assistance and to rebuild Afghanistan.