President Donald Trump established a new Religious Liberty Commission, with Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Bishop Robert Barron as members. The commission, announced on the National Day of Prayer, aims to advise the President on religious freedom issues. It will focus on threats to religious freedom and strategies to enhance legal protections. The commission will produce a report on religious liberty in America, addressing areas like school choice and conscience protections. This move highlights the administration's commitment to defending religious freedoms for all faiths.
13 days ago
President Trump established the Religious Liberty Commission on May 1, 2025, coinciding with the National Day of Prayer 1 2 4. The commission is tasked with producing a report on the foundations of religious liberty in America 1 2 4. It will also develop strategies to increase awareness of religious pluralism and address current threats to religious freedom 1 2 4. The commission will advise the White House Faith Office and the Domestic Policy Council 4.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Bishop Robert Barron have been appointed to serve on the commission 1 2 4. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick will chair the commission, with Dr. Ben Carson serving as vice chair 1 4. Other members include Pastor Paula White, Ryan Anderson, Dr. Phil McGraw, and Rev. Franklin Graham 1 4. Bishop Barron expressed gratitude for his appointment and stated his intention to bring Catholic social teaching to bear on the commission's work, modeling his service after Fr. Theodore Hesburgh 1 2 4.
During the announcement, Trump emphasized the importance of trusting in God and defending religious freedom 1 2. He questioned the concept of separation of church and state, suggesting a potential challenge to this principle 1 2 4. Trump also mentioned Cardinal Dolan's absence due to his presence in Rome for the upcoming papal conclave 4. He joked about potential lawsuits arising from the commission's formation 1 2. Some of Trump's past policy decisions have faced criticism from faith leaders, particularly concerning immigration 4.
The Religious Liberty Commission will focus on several key areas related to religious freedom 1 2 4. These include parental rights in religious education, school choice, and conscience protections 1 2 4. The commission will also address free speech for religious entities, institutional autonomy, and attacks on houses of worship 1 2 4.
While I cannot confirm the formation of a "Religious Liberty Commission" by Trump with Cardinal Dolan and Bishop Barron, I can provide information on religious freedom according to the Catholic Church.
Here's what Catholic teaching says about religious freedom:
In summary, the Catholic Church views religious freedom as a fundamental human right rooted in the dignity of the human person. This right should be protected by law and exercised within the bounds of public order. The Church actively promotes religious freedom globally, advocating for the rights of individuals and communities to practice their faith without coercion.