Version 2. Revised version published 8 October 2026 following author revisions.
Abstract
In this article, I observe that the Roman Catholic Church’s approach to global affairs has shifted from prioritizing globalization to addressing the challenges of great-power competition. This transition reflects a changing global landscape, where economic interdependence and international cooperation have given way to rivalries among powerful nations. At the heart of this new scenario lies a critical question: what does it mean for the Church to safeguard peace in a world where rising powers, such as China, increasingly challenge—even militarily—the hegemonic dominance of the United States? I suggest that the Church could accept China’s rise as a global power if it occurs through peaceful and non-violent means. While the Church firmly rejects the use of force, it may recognize China’s aspirations as a rising Asian power seeking what it regards as its rightful place in a multipolar order—provided these ambitions are pursued through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for international norms.
Keywords: Catholicism; United States; deglobalization; China; militarization.
About the contributor
Enrico Beltramini
Notre Dame de Namur University, California
ORCID 0000-0001-9704-3960
Recommended citation
Enrico Beltramini. “Safeguarding Peace in the Great Power Competition. Catholicism and China’s Challenge to the US-Led Order.” Faith • Civilization • Theology 1, no. 1 (2026). https://faithcivilizationtheology.org/article/safeguarding-peace-in-the-great-power-competition-catholicism-and-chinas-challenge-to-the-us-led-order/.
Copyright holder/licensor: Enrico Beltramini. All rights reserved.