When Joseph R. Biden Jr. was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States, he brought with him a deeply ingrained faith that is interwoven with his character and political sensibilities. A devout Catholic, Biden’s faith journey and his forward-thinking views represent a progressive strand of Catholicism that has often been overshadowed by more traditionalist narratives. His leadership offers a fresh perspective that aligns well with contemporary Catholic values as envisioned by Pope Francis, standing in deliberate contrast to the conservative factions that have historically dominated the discourse.

A Journey Anchored in Faith

Biden’s Catholic heritage dates back to his early childhood in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Raised in an Irish-Catholic family, he was baptized at St. Paul’s Catholic Church. His faith matured along with him, becoming a bedrock of strength, especially through personal tragedies including the loss of his first wife Neilia and daughter Naomi in a car accident, and later, the death of his son Beau from brain cancer. Throughout his life, Biden has consistently turned to prayer and the teachings of Catholicism for solace and guidance.

Biden regularly attends Mass and has spoken openly about how his faith shapes his values of empathy, justice, and service to others. Unlike his predecessors, he isn’t just a nominal Catholic; he actively incorporates his beliefs into his public life and policies. His understanding of Catholicism, however, is progressive and inclusive, much in the spirit of today’s Vatican under Pope Francis.

The Progressive Wave: Pope Francis and Biden’s Vision

The election of Pope Francis in 2013 marked a turning point in the Catholic Church. Known for his humility and dedication to social justice, Francis has taken strides to steer the Church away from its dogmatic past towards a more inclusive future. His encyclicals, such as Laudato Si’ on environmental care and Fratelli Tutti on fraternity and social friendship, emphasize the Church’s role in addressing modern social issues.

Pope Francis has shown an openness to LGBTQ+ individuals, a leniency towards divorced and remarried Catholics, and a focus on economic justice that appeals to the impoverished and marginalized. This vision resonates well with Joe Biden’s approach to governance. The President has consistently aligned himself with causes that reflect a commitment to social equity, climate change, and healthcare reforms—key issues also championed by Francis.

The Challenge of Traditionalism

However, Biden’s progressivism does not sit well with the entire spectrum of Catholic America. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), for example, has taken stances that are more conservative, particularly on issues like abortion. The tension between Biden’s administration and these traditionalist voices has often been palpable. The cultural divide within American Catholicism is perhaps most evident in the debate over the Latin Mass and its associated conservative symbolism.

The Latin Mass, celebrated in the pre-Vatican II Tridentine form, has become a cultural touchstone for Catholic traditionalists who resist the progressivism espoused by both Pope Francis and Biden. Whereas Francis has actively discouraged the exclusive use of the Latin Mass, even releasing Traditionis Custodes to limit its spread, traditionalists see it as a symbol of resisting modernity and maintaining a rigid orthodoxy. This resistance often encompasses broader issues, including the rejection of social justice tenets that both Biden and the Pope endorse.

Policy and Morality: A Synthesis

One of the most telling ways in which Biden’s progressive Catholicism manifests is in his policy decisions. His COVID-19 relief efforts, infrastructure plans, and climate change policies showcase a commitment to the common good, echoing Catholic social teachings. Biden’s American Rescue Plan, for instance, extended crucial financial assistance to millions of struggling families, a directive that is deeply rooted in the Catholic call for charity and support for the vulnerable.

When it comes to healthcare, Biden’s advocacy for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and expansion of healthcare coverage also aligns well with the Catholic emphasis on human dignity. The Catholic Church regards health as a fundamental human right, and Biden’s policies work towards making this a reality for more Americans, particularly those who have historically been underserved.

Another area where Biden’s Catholicism plays a pivotal role is in his environmental policies. Echoing Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’, Biden has taken aggressive steps toward addressing climate change. From rejoining the Paris Agreement to proposing extensive investments in green energy, Biden’s initiatives recognize the moral imperative of protecting our common home.

Looking Ahead

As President, Joe Biden has navigated his faith with both conviction and compassion, embodying a vision of Catholicism that prioritizes inclusivity, social justice, and ecological responsibility. In doing so, he has inevitably drawn both praise and criticism, reflecting the complex and often polarized landscape of contemporary Catholicism.

As Pope Francis continues to guide the global Catholic community towards a more progressive and compassionate future, Joe Biden stands as a testament to how these values can be translated into actionable, impactful governance. His administration exemplifies the potential of a faith-led leadership that seeks unity, justice, and care for the most vulnerable, offering a hopeful narrative for the U.S. and beyond.