In the March 18 editorial, “As fear wins,” the writer says “With more of an opening to claim a need for pistols on the hip, we will be closer to a well-armed mob than a civil community. The mischief inherent in the Second Amendment will continue doing its work …”
The Catechism of The Catholic Church does not seem to share this view. Paragraphs 2263-2265 cover Legitimate Self Defense. The main points are these:
1.) “Love toward oneself remains a fundamental principle of morality … Someone who defends his life is not guilty of murder even if he is forced to deal his aggressor a lethal blow.”
2.) “Legitimate defense can be not only a right but a grave duty for one who is responsible for the lives of others.”
The taking of a human life, even legitimately, is a grave thing that one has to live with for the rest of his or her life. No one is advocating a “Wild West” mentality. The permit to carry a concealed weapon comes with a requirement for background checks and training. The use of deadly force is taught to be used only as an absolute last resort.
The author points out that “God has created a world intended for love, which banishes fear and the violence that justifies itself in fear.” I would refer to point #1 above. Unfortunately, we also have man’s fallen nature to deal with. To preserve one’s life and his family’s from senseless violence does not equate to a lack of trust in God.
John Friede
Walcott
