Torture is a Moral Issue

“Christians are called to cooperate for the defense of human rights and for the abolition of the death penalty, torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment against the human person in time of peace and in case of war. . .These practices are grave crimes against the human person, created in the image of God, and a scandal for the human family in the 21st century.”— Cardinal Renato Martino, President Emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace

Torture Awareness Month

June 26th is the date designated by the United Nations as the International Day in Support of Torture Victims to commemorate the adoption of the UN Convention against Torture on that day in 1987.

Since 2006, human rights organizations and religious groups have declared the month of June “Torture Awareness Month.” As June 2011 approaches, the voices of the torture victims continue to cry out for justice.  Regardless of the guilt or innocence of the victim, torture is always wrong.  Besides constituting a crime against humanity under U.S. and international human rights law, torture is intrinsically evil, according to Christian social teaching.  Our U.S. Catholic Bishops have provided us with an excellent discussion guide to address the evil of torture.  According to the bishops, “Raising awareness of the reality of torture is a first step to creating a consensus of the need to end this practice.”  During the month of June, the Diocesan website will provide resources for parishes to observe Torture Awareness Month, including suggestions for prayer, liturgy, catechesis, personal reflection, and action to abolish torture.  

For an in-depth parish study resource, consider the module from JustFaith Ministries entitled “In the Steps of the Crucified: Torture is Never Justified.”

*New! Prayer to ban torture