Pope Paul VI, in Ecclesia Suam, considered “loyalty, perseverance and self-sacrifice” to be the distinguishing marks of a Christian in a modern world that increasingly embraces relativism.
“The follower of Christ is not pliant and cowardly, but loyal and strong,” he wrote.
The virtue of loyalty is closely linked to the virtue of obedience, wherein we freely submit ourselves to rightful authority. As Catholics, we are called to be loyal to our bishops, to Scripture and Tradition, to the teaching authority of the Church (the Magisterium), and to the Christian way of life.
Loyalty is distinct from admiration for a person or institution, and even from respect. Admiration and respect can be rightfully earned and rightfully lost. Virtuous loyalty does not swerve from its object, and it flows forth from the one who gives it.
©LPi