Brian Burch, the nominee for U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, faced questioning from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The hearing primarily focused on foreign aid cuts and the U.S.-Holy See relationship, with senators raising concerns about reconciling the administration's stance with the Vatican's. Burch, the president of CatholicVote, expressed agreement with the aid cuts while also supporting the Vatican's leadership on humanitarian issues. Discussions also touched upon the Holy See's relationship with China and the role of the Catholic Church in international affairs.
21 days ago
Brian Burch, president of CatholicVote, faced scrutiny during his Senate confirmation hearing for nomination as the U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See 1 2. The hearing addressed his views on foreign aid, the Vatican's relationship with China, and his ability to represent U.S. interests 1.
Senators questioned Burch on various issues, including foreign aid cuts, the Vatican-China deal, and hostage negotiations 1. Sen. Shaheen pressed Burch on foreign aid, while Sen. Ricketts inquired about the Vatican-China agreement 1 2. Burch stated his commitment to representing the Trump administration's policies 1.
Burch supports the Trump administration's foreign aid cuts, arguing that aid should align with U.S. interests 1 2. He acknowledged the potential conflict with the Vatican's humanitarian focus 2. Burch said he would address this challenge by emphasizing that U.S. foreign aid is not "endless" 1.
Burch expressed concern over China's role in appointing Catholic bishops 1 2. He stated that the Holy See should resist foreign government influence in religious institutions 1. Burch pledged to encourage the Vatican to pressure China on human rights and religious freedom 1 2.
Burch is the president of CatholicVote, an organization that previously tried to rally Catholic support for Trump 2. He has been critical of Pope Francis in the past 2. Despite past criticisms, Burch assured the committee that he understands the difference between advocacy and diplomacy 2.
The Catholic Church's engagement in geopolitics is rooted in its spiritual mission and its concern for the well-being of all people . The Church views its role as a moral force in international relations, advocating for peace, justice, human dignity, and cooperation among nations . This engagement is facilitated through diplomacy, dialogue, and the promotion of fundamental values .
The Church strives to promote peace, justice, and interreligious dialogue worldwide, expressing a desire for dignity and justice for all . It acknowledges the efforts of the international community while also recognizing the work that remains to be done to ensure freedom and sovereignty for all peoples . The Church's role is distinct from that of civil authorities, focusing on serving the common good . This involves educating consciences on essential principles and values such as respect for human dignity, solidarity, and brotherhood .
The Holy See maintains diplomatic relations with many states, using diplomacy as an instrument of peace . The Church engages in structured dialogue with civil authorities to foster mutual understanding and cooperation, prevent disputes, and contribute to the progress of all people in justice and peace . The diplomatic service of the Holy See works to defend and promote human dignity and a social order based on justice, truth, freedom, and love . The Church's diplomacy is essentially religious and spiritual, allowing it to contribute to international relations while pursuing its goals . Pope Paul VI noted that the Church's diplomacy should be committed to the moral good of peoples and witnessing to the Gospel .
The Catholic Church's involvement in geopolitics is driven by its mission to serve humanity and promote the common good. Through diplomacy, advocacy for justice and peace, and interreligious dialogue, the Church seeks to influence international relations in a way that upholds human dignity and fosters a more just and peaceful world.