Pope John XXIII addressed the concept of peace in deeply human terms in his 1963 encyclical, Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth). Written during the Cold War, amid intense global tension, this encyclical marked the first time a papal document was directed not only to Catholics but to “all men of good will.” John XXIII’s message emphasizes peace as an achievable goal rooted in universal human values rather than solely religious doctrine.
Key Points from Pacem in Terris
- Dignity and Rights of the Human Person
John XXIII affirmed that true peace begins with respect for human dignity and the recognition of fundamental human rights, including life, food, shelter, work, and freedom. He wrote that every human person deserves to live in conditions that allow them to reach their potential, thus ensuring a harmonious society. - Moral Order and Common Good
For John XXIII, peace requires a foundation in moral order and a commitment to the common good. He argued that political, social, and economic institutions must support these values, fostering an environment of mutual respect and support. Peace, in his view, isn’t merely the absence of conflict but a society where justice prevails. - Dialogue and Cooperation among Nations
The encyclical places a strong emphasis on international cooperation and diplomacy. John XXIII urged nations to transcend nationalism and work together through dialogue rather than through arms. He saw peace as a collaborative global endeavor that requires open communication, compromise, and empathy across borders. - Disarmament and Arms Control
John XXIII called for an end to the arms race and advocated for nuclear disarmament, emphasizing that peace cannot coexist with the constant threat of annihilation. He urged nations to divert resources from weaponry to social and economic development, suggesting that human flourishing and global stability go hand-in-hand. - Solidarity and Subsidiarity
He encouraged a sense of solidarity and the principle of subsidiarity, wherein social issues should be managed by the smallest, most local authority capable. This approach, he argued, could promote peace by empowering communities and fostering unity from the grassroots level to the global. - Role of Individuals in Building Peace
Finally, John XXIII highlighted the role each person plays in promoting peace. He called upon individuals to cultivate inner peace, understanding, and kindness. By practicing peace in their personal lives, people contribute to a culture of peace in society.
Memorable Excerpts
One well-known passage from Pacem in Terris is John XXIII’s statement that “peace on earth—which man throughout the ages has so longed for and sought after—can never be established, never guaranteed, except by the diligent observance of the divinely established order.” He presented this “order” as a moral framework that each individual and society should uphold, built on truth, justice, love, and freedom.
