Steven Waldman asks “Why Didn’t Catholics Follow the Church on the War?” I wasn’t aware, and don’t mean this glibly, that the Church had an official position on the war. I am aware, of course, of all the “concern” about the war expressed by both popes, some curia, and the U. S. bishops. I also know that the Catechism of the Catholic Church says that the decision to start a “just war” belongs to the head of state — it is up to his or her prudential judgment. Public comments, for or against, a war do not amount to a “Church position.” I suppose one reason that Catholics didn’t turn against the war once negative comments were heard from members of the curia and the Holy Father, was that they didn’t feel any obligation to do so. I’m sure most Catholics, like myself, take into account the perspective of bishops and the pope on prudential matters, but feel free to reach different conclusions.
Regarding my own position, I supported the invasion, thinking it a “just war” at the time. As it has worn on, it is clear to me that many indigenous factors in Iraq and the surrounding countries were not as clearly understood as they should have been. Several conservative Catholic friends warned me about this set of issues on the ground before the invasion — they were experienced hands in Middle Eastern and Muslim matters. These friends turned out to be right on the money about what has, subsequently, gone wrong. As of now, I support the war with the aim of getting out when there is enough stability to avoid a bloodbath.