How a Catholic Should Act During a "Without Rule of Law" (WROL) Scenario
A "Without Rule of Law" (WROL) scenario refers to situations where civil society collapses, governance fails, and the formal structures of law and order are absent or ineffective. Such scenarios may arise due to natural disasters, wars, or severe economic and social breakdowns. As seen during Hurricane Katrina in 2005 & the Minneapolis riots that followed the George Floyd incident in 2020. In these moments of chaos and uncertainty, when the structures of society and law seem to dissolve, Catholics are still called to act with integrity, compassion, and moral clarity. The teachings of the Church offer a guiding light even in the darkest of circumstances, reminding the faithful of their obligations to God and neighbor. While the circumstances of each scenario will be different, the following points will be present in some way shape or form.
1. Maintaining Moral Law Amid the Collapse of Civil Law
The absence of civil law does not mean the absence of moral law. The Catholic Church teaches that God's law, revealed in the Scriptures and inscribed in the human heart, remains binding on the conscience of every person, even in a WROL scenario. Catholics are called to live by the natural law, which is the law of reason given by God to all humans, and the Divine law, expressed through the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Christ. In moments of societal breakdown, Catholics must remember that "Thou shalt not kill," "Thou shalt not steal," and "Thou shalt not bear false witness" are commands that apply universally, regardless of whether the state can enforce them.
During such crises, the temptation to engage in theft, violence, and deception may be high, but these actions contradict the Gospel's message of love and justice. A Catholic should act in a way that reflects the dignity of every human being, seeking to avoid actions that harm others or lead to further disorder. Even when survival is difficult, Catholics should strive to respect the rights of others, especially the most vulnerable, and maintain a strong sense of morality.
2. The Call to Charity and Solidarity
One of the core principles of Catholic social teaching is solidarity, which calls for a firm commitment to the common good, especially in times of crisis. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that "the principle of solidarity, also articulated in terms of 'friendship' or 'social charity,' is a direct demand of human and Christian brotherhood" (CCC 1939). In a WROL scenario, Catholics should resist the temptation to act selfishly or hoard resources. Instead, they are called to be generous and compassionate, seeking to share what they have with others in need.
Catholics are called to view their fellow human beings, regardless of race, religion, or social status, as brothers and sisters created in the image of God. This means that even in dire circumstances, the suffering and needs of others should prompt a Catholic response rooted in love. For example, if a Catholic family has access to food or shelter, they should not hesitate to assist neighbors who are less fortunate, following Christ's command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).
Charitable action in times of crisis may also extend beyond immediate physical needs. Providing emotional and spiritual support to those in distress can be a powerful witness to Christ’s love. Catholics who are able to remain calm, faithful, and hopeful in the midst of chaos can serve as a beacon of hope for others, offering comfort and encouragement to those who are fearful or despairing.
3. Upholding Justice and the Preferential Option for the Poor
Catholic teaching emphasizes a preferential option for the poor and vulnerable. In a WROL scenario, where the strong may seek to exploit the weak, Catholics must be especially vigilant in protecting the rights of the marginalized. The teachings of the Church stress that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society, and this dignity must be defended at all times, especially when it is under threat.
Justice, in Catholic thought, is not merely about punishment or retribution; it is about right relationships—ensuring that each person is given what they are due according to their dignity as children of God. In a situation where there is no rule of law, Catholics should strive to uphold justice by treating others with respect and fairness, working to resolve disputes peacefully, and standing against those who would exploit the vulnerable.
For example, if a Catholic encounters a situation where a group is attempting to take advantage of a weaker person or group (such as through robbery, coercion, or violence), the moral imperative is to intervene or offer assistance in a manner that promotes peace and protects human dignity. The Gospel calls for a courageous defense of the defenseless, even in times of personal danger or hardship.
4. Trusting in Divine Providence
Catholics are also called to maintain their faith and trust in God’s providence, even when the world around them seems to be falling apart. The Bible is filled with stories of God’s faithfulness in times of trial, such as His protection of the Israelites in the desert or Christ’s promise that the gates of hell would not prevail against His Church. In a WROL scenario, Catholics are encouraged to turn to prayer, seeking strength and guidance from God. They are called to remain hopeful, knowing that God is always in control and that, ultimately, His justice and mercy will prevail.
St. Paul reminds the faithful in Romans 8:28 that “in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This assurance of divine providence provides Catholics with the inner strength to face uncertainty with courage and to act with integrity even when societal norms collapse.
5. Prudence and Preparedness
Prudence, one of the cardinal virtues, is the ability to govern and discipline oneself through the use of reason. In times of crisis, this virtue becomes particularly important. Catholics should be prudent in their actions, balancing the need to protect themselves and their families with their obligations to others. While it is not wrong to take measures to ensure personal safety—such as securing food, water, and shelter—prudence demands that Catholics avoid paranoia or excessive focus on self-preservation that blinds them to the needs of others.
Catholic teaching also encourages preparedness, not in a spirit of fear, but in a spirit of responsibility. Preparing for difficult times is consistent with the virtue of prudence, but this should be done in a way that does not neglect the call to generosity and trust in God's care.
Conclusion
In a WROL scenario, Catholics are called to be lights in the darkness. By adhering to the moral law, practicing charity, defending justice, and trusting in God's providence, they can witness to the truth of the Gospel even in the most trying circumstances. The challenge of acting in a Christ-like manner is great in such scenarios, but the Church's teachings provide a roadmap to ensure that faith and hope endure even when society falters.