Defend 'life at all stages' and exercise 'restraint,' actor Jonathan Roumie urges college graduates

Actor Jonathan Roumie, best known for portraying Jesus of Nazareth in "The Chosen," called on graduates of the Catholic University of America to defend "life at all stages" and exercise "restraint" in the digital age during the school's 2024 commencement ceremony.

Roumie encouraged graduates to "preach the gospel by the life you live, by your actions and the choices you make, by the political positions you take and advocacy for the causes you champion and yes, especially as Catholic Christians, that means defending life at all stages."

Roumie said those listening to his speech are probably thinking that "people are out of control" and "the world is on fire" these days.

"Yes, it may appear that way, but who do you think is in charge? Don't let the enemy tempt you to pick up a can of gasoline and add to the flames of the chaos and the fear," said Roumie, who received an honorary degree from the Catholic University on Saturday. 

"Be ready with a hose filled with words of comfort and consolation, ready to put out those flames. Offer a blanket of peace, the peace of acting in accordance with the Holy Spirit, providing the solace and wisdom of Jesus so desperately needed in our times. This is your testing ground," he also said.

Roumie called on graduates to "pray for those" who disagree with their views and condemn them.

"Let restraint be your guide, especially in the digital age when it is so easy to just react. But why should we be restrained when we are persecuted for our beliefs more than ever, perhaps? One word, one name above all others: Jesus," he said.

According to the university's official website, the Catholic University of America is "the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States, founded and sponsored by the bishops of the country with the approval of the Holy See" and "students of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome" to apply.