Waterboarding? Electric Shocks? References to torture can be found in newspapers, radio and TV programs, and even in cartoons.
What does the Catholic Church have to say about torture? This four chapter study guide offers reflections on torture as a moral issue. It was written by David Gibson, who previously served on the Catholic News Service editorial staff and was editor of Origins, CNS Documentary Service, and was published by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
We encourage your congregation to use this guide in whatever way best fits the needs of your congregation, whether by organizing a new discussion, incorporating the curriculum into an existing justice group, or adapting the curriculum for religious education classes or youth groups.
Overview:
Chapter 1 - Recognizing Every Person's God-Given Dignity
Chapter 2 - The Problem with Torture
Chapter 3 - Do Christians Love Their Enemies Even Now?
Chapter 4 - Action Steps to Address Torture
The Catholic News Service has also written an article, "USCCB Introduces Study Guide that Examines Torture as Moral Issue," that can be found here. It describes the curriculum and also the participation by Catholic parishes and orders in NRCAT's "Banners Across America" project.
For other resources to educate your congregation about torture or to find worship materials, please visit the "People of Faith Act" section of the NRCAT website.
Below are two articles about the study guide:
- "Bishops issue new study guide on torture" by Dennis Sadowski, The Catholic Voice, 07/07/08.
- "USCCB Introduces Study Guide that Examines Torture as Moral Issue" by Dennis Sadowski, Catholic News Service, 06/24/08.
