When so much about our lives has been disrupted – from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, continuing civic unrest and now a contentious election season – it is easy to lose sight of the things we can control. In a time of great economic disruption and change, the poor are especially vulnerable as material poverty undermines the conditions that allow all humans to flourish.
It is the conviction of the Acton Institute that the best means of reducing poverty is through the creation of wealth. Under a system of private property rights and the rule of law, the potential to serve others through our vocations is unleashed in the form of creative service.
In this issue, I am happy to share a recap of a recent editorial of mine on the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett published by the Dallas Morning News titled “There should be no religious test for the Supreme Court.” There is also a feature story on our upcoming PovertyCure Summit, which will bring together many diverse religious, business and philanthropic leaders from around the world to discuss and learn more about the problem of poverty and innovative solutions to help the world’s poor. We encourage you to join us for this exciting virtual event!
Two small briefs round out the issue. The first is about the new approach we are taking to our Annual Dinner this year as a special one-hour livestreaming event. Lastly, we are excited to announce this year’s recipient of the 2020 Novak Award, Dr. Gregory M. Collins. Dr. Collins is an accomplished young scholar and a postdoctoral associate and lecturer at Yale. His deep, balanced and wide-ranging scholarship – sensitive to both freedom and virtue – is a privilege to recognize.
None of this would be possible without the generous support of our donors. Thank you! Your support is more important than ever in these trying times. If you are just learning about Acton, be sure to check out our website, and please prayerfully consider supporting us in our mission.
