The LuLac Edition #5,636, April 22nd, 2026

 

WRITE ON WEDNESDAY

Our “Write on Wednesday” logo.

With the controversy between President Trump and Pope Leo, we thought that an official word from the largest fraternal Catholic organization is in order. The Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus gave his take on the controversy that has piqued the interest of many.

 

K OF C SUPREME KNIGHT WEIGHS IN ON LEO-DON CONTROVERSY

 

In recent days, many Catholics and other people of goodwill have been deeply disappointed by the disparaging comments directed at Pope Leo XIV by the President of the United States. The Successor of Saint Peter is not a politician — he is the Vicar of Christ, entrusted with proclaiming the Gospel and shepherding souls.

The Knights of Columbus has always stood in solidarity with the Holy Father, recognizing in him a spiritual father who calls the world not to division, but to unity, not to conflict, but to peace. In this moment, we reaffirm that commitment with clarity and conviction.

At the same time, we recognize that faithful Catholics can and do engage vigorously in the public square, and that nations have a right and duty to safeguard the security of their own people — always in accordance with the demands of justice and the pursuit of peace. The Church does not ask Catholics to withdraw from civic life, but to engage with and elevate it — bringing to our civic dialogue the light of truth, respect for the dignity of every human person, and a steadfast concern for the common good.

Pope Leo XIV has consistently called for peace, dialogue, and restraint in a world marked by war and suffering. The Holy Father’s words are not political talking points — they are reflections of the Gospel itself. Whether one agrees or disagrees with particular policy judgments, the Holy Father’s prophetic voice deserves to be heard with respect and engaged seriously.

As Knights, we are called to be men of unity, as followers of Christ and patriotic citizens. I encourage all Knights of Columbus to pray for the Holy Father, to pray for civic leaders, and to pray for peace and those working to achieve it. And let us recommit ourselves to charity in our public discourse. May we be known not for echoing the divisions of our time, but for healing them. In a moment of tension, the path forward is not louder conflict, but deeper fidelity — to truth, to charity, and to the Gospel.

Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly

Knights of Columbus

New Haven, CT 06510