Faith, Conflict, and the Pursuit of Peace

On today’s episode of Just Love, Monsignor invites listeners into a thoughtful conversation rooted in our Catholic faith and open to dialogue across traditions. As we reflect on Advent—the season in which Christians prepare for the extraordinary mystery of the Word made flesh—we explore how Scripture, Catholic social teaching, and worship shape the way we see the world, respond to injustice, and care for those on the margins. From Mary’s Magnificat to the Church’s call to balance personal and social responsibility, the discussion highlights how faith informs both belief and action.

Monsignor then sits down with Dr. Ladd Serwat of ACLED (Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project) to discuss the troubling rise of religiously motivated violence in Sub-Saharan Africa, with particular attention to attacks against Christian communities in Nigeria. Dr. Serwat shares insights into the scope and nature of this violence, explaining how data helps distinguish whether Christians are being targeted specifically for their faith or caught within broader conflicts. Together, they examine the regional security landscape, key actors involved, and what these realities mean for Catholics committed to solidarity with persecuted Christians and the promotion of peace around the world.