Catholic Quote by Fulton J. Sheen
““It is not the sanctuary that is in danger; it is civilization. It is not infallibility that may go down; it is personal rights. It is not the Eucharist that may pass away; it is freedom of conscience. It is not divine justice that may evaporate; it is the courts of human justice. It is not that God may be driven from His throne; it is that men may lose the meaning of home; For peace on earth will come only to those who give glory to God! It is not the Church that is in danger, it is the world!””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: “The Danger to Civilization”, 1953, Catholic Radio Broadcast
The quote warns that threats to spiritual institutions mask deeper dangers to civil liberties, conscience, and justice, urging protection of human rights over institutional preservation.
In simple terms: Institutions may be safe, but personal freedoms are at risk.
Key Takeaway
Defend personal rights and justice.
Themes
freedom
justice
civilization
religion
human rights
Mood
urgent
concerned
hopeful
Type
ethical
political
spiritual
When to use this quote
- political activism
- legal reform
- faith community discussions
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
conscience
civil liberties
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance protecting institutions with protecting individual freedoms?
- What responsibilities do religious leaders have in defending civil rights?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the role of institutions in safeguarding rights.
![“The young man [Turgot] destined for an ecclesiastical career was placed within walls carefully designed to keep out all currents of new thought; his studies, his reading, his professors, his associates, all were combined to keep from him any results of observation or reflection save those…” quote by Andrew Dickson White](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5d4/andrew-dickson-white-24254_associates_the-young-man-turgot-destined-for-an-ecc_3146.jpg)
![“Girded with faith and the performance of good works, let us follow in his [Jesus] paths by the guidance of the Gospel.” quote by Benedict of Nursia](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a2f/benedict-of-nursia-29376_catholic_girded-with-faith-and-the-performance-of_6463.jpg)
