Pax Christi International extends its warm congratulations to Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, newly elected President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop Daniel E. Flores, elected Vice President. Their leadership begins at a moment of profound moral urgency for the Church in the United States—one in which the defense of migrants, the protection of human rights around the world, and the safeguarding of the rule of law demand renewed clarity, courage, and unity.

For eighty years, Pax Christi International has worked to advance peace, reconciliation, and human dignity rooted in the Gospel. Our global movement, active in more than 50 countries, is grounded in a shared commitment to active nonviolence as a transformative path for the Church and society. Last month, our 80th Anniversary World Gathering in Florence brought together members from around the world (including Pax Christi USA), to reflect on the legacy and future of Gospel nonviolence. The gathering was made even more meaningful by Pope Leo’s special greeting during his General Audience, in which he affirmed our mission as artisans of peace.

We also celebrated the re-election of Sr. Wamuyu Wachira, CJ (Kenya), and the election of Bishop José Colin Bagaforo (Philippines) as Co-Presidents of Pax Christi International — leaders who embody our global commitment to reconciliation, justice, and nonviolence. Their service strengthens the work we continue through the Catholic Nonviolence Initiative and the emerging Catholic Institute for Nonviolence.

 

A Call for Courageous Leadership on Migrants and Human Rights

As this new USCCB leadership begins its service, Pax Christi International supports an active, open, and prophetic stance in defense of migrants, refugees, and all people whose dignity is threatened. The United States stands at a decisive crossroads: debates over migration, border policy, and basic human rights, including in Palestine, Sudan, and Ukraine, increasingly shape national life and U.S. foreign policy and test the Church’s witness.

The USCCB has offered an essential moral voice on migration, advocating for humane immigration policy, family unity, protections for asylum seekers, and the dignity of workers. At a time when polarization and fear often overshadow compassion and justice, we pray that  Archbishop Coakley and Bishop Flores will strengthen that voice, renew the Church’s commitment to those forced to flee violence, poverty, and instability and strengthen the Church’s objection to the U.S. role in arming the perpetrators of violence and war.

 

Walking Together in Gospel Nonviolence

Pax Christi International maintains special consultative status with the United Nations and UNESCO and remains actively engaged with the Council of Europe, the European Union and the Holy See. Across these international platforms, as well as through national sections, partners, and local communities, we work to promote policies that uphold human dignity, just peace, nonviolent alternatives and the common good.

As an international movement, in cooperation with Pax Christi USA, we stand ready to collaborate with the Bishops’ Conference in advancing the Church’s witness to nonviolence and just peace. We express our support for the good that the new USCCB leadership will undertake, and we look forward to working together in fostering a more just and compassionate society.

As this new chapter unfolds, we pray that the Holy Spirit will guide Archbishop Coakley and Bishop Flores with wisdom, courage, and a deep pastoral love for all people—especially those most vulnerable.

Cover picture via CBCP NEWS