‘Fidelity Month’ event explores what binds Americans together ahead of 250th anniversary
Princeton professor Robert P. George urged a renewed commitment to America’s founding values at the Fidelity Month event in Washington, D.C. The event highlighted a perceived decline in faith, patriotism and family values among Americans, citing a 2023 Wall Street Journal poll. George emphasized that fidelity to God, family and country, together with constitutional principles, are key binding factors for the nation. State officials, including governors of Utah and Arkansas and legislators in Michigan and Kentucky, have recognized Fidelity Month with proclamations and resolutions.
3 months ago
‘Fidelity Month’ is a grassroots campaign launched by Princeton professor Robert P. George in 2023 to counter a Wall Street Journal poll showing declines in religious belief, patriotism and family values. At a June 17, 2026 event in Washington, D.C., George and Advancing American Freedom Foundation President Tim Chapman urged Americans to reaffirm “fidelity to God, family, community and country” as the core bonds that have historically united the nation, especially as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. 1 2
The initiative was sparked by a 2023 Wall Street Journal poll that documented a sharp drop in religious belief, patriotism and family cohesion among Americans. George described this trend as a “loss of faith” and a lack of gratitude for the country, warning that these values have long been the nation’s source of unity and strength. 1
Fidelity Month aims to promote faithfulness to God, spouses, families, and the nation through simple actions such as sharing articles on social media and encouraging clergy to address fidelity in sermons throughout June. 2
George emphasized a shared commitment to the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the principle that all men are created equal with unalienable rights. He noted that while these political ideals are essential, they are not sufficient without moral commitments. 1
The discussion underscored the importance of a collective belief in God and the centrality of marriage and family life, describing these as binding forces that transcend religious and cultural differences. George stressed that these values are not exclusively Christian but are universal pillars of societal cohesion. 2
Patriotism, expressed as love for country and service to communities, was presented as another key element that historically helped the pluralistic nation stay united. 1
Governors of Utah and Arkansas issued proclamations recognizing Fidelity Month, while the Michigan House and Kentucky Senate passed resolutions. George highlighted this as the first time governors and state legislatures have formally endorsed the initiative, hoping for broader adoption in future years. 2
George expressed optimism that the movement will expand, aiming to secure endorsements from additional governors and legislatures next year. The campaign seeks to embed fidelity‑focused messaging in public discourse as the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary. 1*
What is Catholic teaching on fidelity to God, family, and nation?
Catholic teaching presents “fidelity” as one coherent pattern of love: God first, then faithful self-giving in marriage and family, and finally patriotism/loyalty to one’s nation—always with God as the ultimate measure and limit.
For Catholics, fidelity to God is not vague spirituality; it is faithfulness to promises made to God and to the covenantal commitments that flow from Baptism and other sacraments.
The Catechism teaches that:
In practice, the Church also links fidelity with resisting temptation through spiritual disciplines and obedience to God’s commandments.
Catholic fidelity to family is rooted in the covenantal character of marriage: spouses make a real gift of themselves, and conjugal love has a definitive character.
The Catechism states:
So, fidelity within family life is not only emotional loyalty; it is covenantal faithfulness expressed in truth, exclusivity, and perseverance—especially in marriage.
Catholic teaching does not treat patriotism as replacing God; rather, it treats it as a legitimate form of love that must be purified and kept in its proper place.
From the Ukrainian Catholic Catechism (in continuity with Catholic moral teaching):
The broader Catholic tradition also teaches that citizens owe real loyalty and obedience, including respect for rulers and interest in the nation’s institutions—while keeping the moral limits clear:
Finally, the Church warns that when “patriotism” becomes a pretext for grave wrongdoing, it is not true patriotism. Pope Pius XII states it is the Church’s duty “to remind everyone once again of the Church’s teaching on this subject.”
Catholic fidelity follows a hierarchy of loves:
In short: fidelity to God protects and interprets fidelity to family, and fidelity to family prevents patriotism from becoming idol-like or cruel, so that love of country remains ordered to the true good of the human person before God.