YOUCAT Question n. 325 – Part II. What is the basis for authority in society?
(Youcat answer - repeated) Every society relies on a legitimate
authority to ensure that it is orderly, cohesive, and smoothrunning and to
promote its development. It is in keeping with human nature, as created by God,
that men allow themselves to be governed by legitimate authority.
A
deepening through CCC
(CCC 1900) The duty of obedience requires
all to give due honor to authority and to treat those who are charged to
exercise it with respect, and, insofar as it is deserved, with gratitude and
good-will. Pope St. Clement of Rome provides the Church's most ancient prayer
for political authorities (Cf. As early
as 1 Tim 2:1-2): "Grant to them, Lord, health, peace, concord, and
stability, so that they may exercise without offense the sovereignty that you
have given them. Master, heavenly King of the ages, you give glory, honor, and
power over the things of earth to the sons of men. Direct, Lord, their counsel,
following what is pleasing and acceptable in your sight, so that by exercising
with devotion and in peace and gentleness the power that you have given to
them, they may find favor with you" (St. Clement of Rome, Ad Cor. 61: SCh 167, 198-200).
Reflecting
and meditating
(Youcat comment) Of course an
authority in society must never originate in the raw usurpation of power but
must have legitimacy under law. Who rules and what form of government is
appropriate are left to the will of the citizens. The Church is not committed
to particular forms of government but only says that they must not contradict
the Common Good.
(CCC
Comment)
(CCC 1918) "There is no authority
except from God, and those authorities that exist have been instituted by
God" (Rom 13:1). (CCC 1919) Every human community needs an authority in
order to endure and develop. (CCC 1922) The diversity of political regimes is
legitimate, provided they contribute to the good of the community.
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