Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has reportedly said that religion should play more of a role in creating foreign policy and the training of diplomats. Do you think such policy makers should involve religion and its leaders more in foreign affairs?

This is certainly a thorny issue that is bound to arouse much debate.  In speaking of foreign policy and the training of diplomats, there is a myriad of religious interpretation depending on oneπs background.  On one hand we might argue that ≥bad≤ religion can foment intolerance and even incite violence while on the other hand we might argue that ≥good≤ religion can foster a climate of goodwill and harmony among peoples. 

Without promoting oneπs particular ≥brand≤ of religion, I believe there are certain universal principles that can and should assist the construction of foreign policy.  Our ≥Declaration of Independence≤ states for example that there exist certain rights endowed by the Creator, namely, that we are created equal and that access should be available for all people to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.  Such principles can provide a guiding hand in the development of policy leading to a peace-filled and just world.  A discerning ear can listen to the wisdom of church leaders and apply that wisdom to public policy.  Without question, religious principles have assisted in the development of law and legal systems throughout the ages and have provided a great deal toward the common good.  Listening to the wisdom of others is a healthy thing to do.

Monsignor Frilot