The WORD in other words (2017) by Father Felix Ferrer SVD – Divine Word Seminary of Tagaytay
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time – A
Is today’s Gospel really about the relationship between the Church and the State? The Gospel passage for this Sunday, Matthew 22:15-21, is often cited to support the separation of Church and State. It is commonly argued that ministers of the Church should not interfere in politics, while government officials should not meddle in matters of faith, worship, or doctrine.
Certainly, if this distinction were properly understood and faithfully observed, it could foster harmony between the two spheres. However, when we consider the signs of the times, we realize that the relationship between the Church and the State is not always that simple. Whenever moral truth, human dignity, justice, and the common good are at stake, Christians cannot remain silent. Both clergy and laity have the responsibility to speak what is good, true, and right. As the prophet Isaiah exhorts, “Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed” (Isaiah 1:17).
Likewise, when the welfare of society is threatened, government leaders have a duty to act responsibly and safeguard the common good. St. Paul reminds us that civil authority is meant to be “God’s servant for your good” (Romans 13:4). Therefore, while the Church and the State have distinct roles, they share a common concern for the well-being of the human person.
For this reason, I propose a broader way of looking at the relationship between the Church and the State. Separation remains important, but it should be complemented by three interrelated principles: cooperation, interaction, and dialogue.
What do we mean by cooperation? Cooperation means that whenever both religious and secular communities can work together for the common good, they should do so. A concrete example is the promotion of peace. Peacebuilding is not solely the task of governments or churches; it is the responsibility of everyone. Jesus Himself declared, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Families, neighbors, civic organizations, and Basic Christian Communities can work together through prayer, reconciliation efforts, and community projects to foster peace in their local communities.
What about interaction? Interaction refers to an attitude of mutual respect and collaboration. Rather than dwelling on differences or emphasizing points of conflict, both the Church and the State should seek areas where they can work together constructively. Such collaboration can have a positive impact on society. One obvious example is the care of creation. Environmental protection is both a civic responsibility and a moral duty. Since the earth is God’s gift to humanity, both religious and civil institutions can cooperate in promoting responsible stewardship of the environment. As Genesis teaches, humanity was entrusted with cultivating and caring for the earth (Genesis 2:15).
And what do we mean by dialogue? Dialogue is respectful communication rooted in a sincere desire to listen, understand, and seek the truth together. It requires recognizing the rights and dignity of others, even when disagreements exist. St. Peter encourages believers to “always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15-16).
This spirit of dialogue is especially important in dealing with people of different faiths, those with secular beliefs, and members of various social groups. Both the Church and the State should keep the channels of communication open, fostering mutual understanding and promoting the common good. In this way, dialogue becomes not a sign of weakness but a path toward unity and peace.
Jesus’ famous instruction, “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God” (Matthew 22:21), does not call for isolation between the Church and the State. Rather, it affirms their distinct responsibilities while reminding us that all authority ultimately belongs to God. Separation need not mean opposition. When accompanied by cooperation, interaction, and dialogue, it can create a relationship that serves both God and society.
If we nurture these three qualities, the vision presented by Jesus in today’s Gospel can become more than a noble ideal. It can become a living reality, one that promotes justice, peace, and the flourishing of all people under God’s loving providence.
