By Charles Igwe
Former Vice President and GOP presidential candidate Mike Pence delivered a compelling address at the Napa Institute’s Catholic Conference in California, urging deeply committed lay Catholics to boldly embrace and live out their faith in the public square. With the theme “What We Need Now: Renewing God’s Presence in Our Lives, in Our Church, and in Our Culture,” the 13th annual summer conference brought together over 800 Catholic leaders, clergy, and changemakers for a week of spiritual enrichment, discussions, and wine tastings.
Speaking at the Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa, Pence emphasized the vital role of faith in shaping America’s future and called upon the attendees to be vocal advocates for their values. He highlighted the significance of the American people’s involvement in safeguarding the foundation of the nation—freedom—and emphasized that this foundation is deeply rooted in faith.
While acknowledging the leadership of priests, bishops, and monsignors in churches across the country, Pence stressed that it is crucial for all members of the Catholic community to step up and actively contribute to the public discourse. He encouraged them to carry the burden on their hearts to speak out for the sake of future generations, kids, and families.
The Napa Institute, a nonprofit organization, aims to equip and empower leaders of faith, ensuring they not only understand Church teachings but can also meaningfully defend them in a world that may view their beliefs as contrarian.
Pence’s 35-minute address captivated the audience, underscoring the importance of faith in public life. His call to embrace faith boldly and his assurance that “God is not done with America yet” resonated strongly with the attendees, inspiring them to take a more active role in shaping the country’s future based on their deeply held beliefs.
