America Quote by Pope John Paul II
“It is important for America that the moral truths which make freedom possible should be passed on to each new generation. Every generation of Americans needs to know that freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought. ... Christ asks us to guard the truth because, as he promised us: "You will know the truth and the truth will make you free." Depositum custodi! We must guard the truth that is the condition of authentic freedom, the truth that allows freedoms to be fulfilled in goodness. We must guard the deposit of divine truth handed down to us.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: World Day of Peace, 1995
Freedom depends on transmitting moral truths across generations; truth is the foundation of authentic liberty.
In simple terms: Freedom needs truth passed down.
Teach and protect moral truth.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- family upbringing
- school curricula
- religious instruction
- public policy
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance diverse beliefs with shared moral foundations?
- What role should institutions play in preserving truth?
Truth can be contested in pluralistic societies, making consensus hard.