On August 14, 2020, Thomas Farr, President of the Religious Freedom Institute, spoke at the Tenth Annual Napa Institute Conference, which was held virtually for the first time.

In his presentation, “Come Be My Light: The American Crisis of Religious Freedom and Catholic Responsibility,” Farr takes a sober look at the troubling state of religious freedom in America, especially the many challenges faithful Catholics, and their institutions, are facing.

Those who oppose Catholic teachings too often castigate the faithful as bigots and haters, a sentiment frequently reflected in the pronouncements and practices of major corporations, the sports industry, the media and entertainment industries, public schools and colleges, the medical profession, and governments.

To make this point, Farr points to growing acceptance of harmful views on gender identity in entertainment and education, the Supreme Court’s deeply misguided decision in Bostock, and statements of high profile public officials that dismiss or mischaracterize religion and religious freedom.

After highlighting key threats to religious freedom in America today, Farr reminds of the Founders’ view of America’s First Freedom as necessary to the common good of society. He then invites his fellow Catholics to respond to this distressing cultural moment by being faithfully and unapologetically Catholic in all areas of life.

Watch the full video: