As tensions rise between Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV, faculty and students at Neumann University are offering perspectives shaped by Catholic teaching, Franciscan values, and concerns about leadership in today’s world.
Sister Patricia Hutchison, interim dean and a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, described her initial reaction as deeply emotional.
“My first reaction was, I was really sad,” she said. “I feel that it is the responsibility of a pope to speak on matters that have to do with morality. War…violates our human condition.”
Sister Patricia Hutchison expresses her thoughts on the conflict. By Nguyen Ta.
Hutchison emphasized that modern warfare has made traditional concepts like the Church’s “just war theory” increasingly outdated.
“It’s very difficult to avoid harming individuals who are not really part of the controversy,” she explained, pointing to the reality that civilians, especially children, are often the ones most affected.
For Hutchison, the Pope’s message is not political overreach but moral responsibility. “It is the pope’s responsibility to encourage all world leaders to seek peace,” she said, adding that calls for preemptive military action only escalate violence and limit opportunities for meaningful dialogue.
While she acknowledged that disagreement is a natural part of leadership, Hutchison strongly criticized the tone used by Trump.
“The manner in which he expressed a disagreement was totally inappropriate,” she said. “I don’t think it’s appropriate to belittle someone that doesn’t agree with my point of view.”
She framed this as part of a broader concern about leadership character. “When people hold public office, they have a responsibility to ensure that the words that they say are respectful,” Hutchison said. “I expect people to behave in ways that honor the dignity of every single person.”
Dr. John Kruse, Director of the Neumann Institute for Franciscan Studies, offered a complementary perspective, focusing on the Pope’s consistent approach.
“Pope Leo never directly addresses a person. He will criticize policies,” Kruse explained. “He’s not engaging in a battle between two people, he is an advocate for peace.”
Dr. John Kruse honors Pope Leo’s call for peace. By Nguyen Ta.
Kruse noted that this distinction reflects a deeper commitment to Gospel values. “He sees it as his role to promote the values of Jesus, and that includes promoting peace,” he said.
Like Hutchison, Kruse expressed disappointment in the political rhetoric surrounding the conflict.
“I was disappointed in the remarks that were made by our president,” he said, contrasting that with his approval of the Pope’s response: “to come out as a consistent advocate for peace.”
Both faculty members tied the situation closely to Franciscan values, particularly humility, dialogue, and reconciliation.
“We have to enter into a relationship from a position of humility that we don’t have all the right answers,” Kruse said. “We always look for a way of reconciliation. No one wins with war.”
Hutchison echoed that sentiment but offered a sharper comparison: “I think that Pope Leo demonstrated those values. Trump did not.”
Beyond the immediate conflict, Hutchison also raised concerns about how rhetoric shapes global perception. She warned that disrespectful language and aggressive posturing could damage the United States’ standing internationally and weaken opportunities for cooperation.
At the same time, both faculty members emphasized the importance of dialogue, even in disagreement. “People don’t have to agree 100%,” Hutchison said, “but they need to engage in honest and open dialogue, so they can learn from one another.”
Kruse agreed, noting that religious leaders often serve as a “moral authority” that can challenge political thinking and encourage alternative approaches to conflict resolution.
Student perspectives revealed a different layer of engagement. While many admitted they were not closely following the situation, some offered strong and thoughtful opinions.
Eric Wall, a Communication and Digital Media major, supported the Pope’s role in global discussions. “I think the Pope should be allowed to talk about politics…because he is the spiritual advisor to more than a billion people worldwide,” he said. “The Papacy should always be a voice of reason to spread the word of world peace, not through violence but by respecting one another,” Wall added.
Bryan Avanzato, a sophomore in the same major who typically leans more conservative, also sided with the Pope. “I personally think it’s a bad situation…but to criticize the pope and question his theology is a no go for me,” he said.
CDM students Eric Wall (left) and Bryan Avanzato (right). By Nguyen Ta.
Avanzato was particularly critical of comments from JD Vance, stating, “I think telling him to be careful with theology is sacrilegious, you don’t have to agree with him, but to tell him to watch what he says is inappropriate.”
Despite differing political leanings, both students emphasized respect and balance. “I stand with the pope,” Avanzato said, while also acknowledging that religious leaders “should tread lightly” when engaging political issues.
Across both faculty and student voices, a clear theme emerged: the need for respectful dialogue, moral leadership, and a renewed focus on peace.
In a moment defined by public disagreement, the Neumann community’s reflections highlight a deeper question, not just about politics, but about the values that guide those in power.
