We should all be concerned about the new strain of nationalism, which is premised on exclusion and the notion that the greatness of America flows from our ability to impose our will on others. We are opting for a false patriotism that might tickle the ear of some, but is ultimately illusory.

American Catholics should understand this. We are, most of us, no more than a few generations separated from forebears who were unwelcome when they came to these shores, but were still inspired by the ideal of a land of freedom and inclusivity. It would be shameful for us to now become willing participants in the dismantling of that ideal.