EN
The article briefly deals with the beginning and history of the traditional Christian doctrine of 'a just war'. Thereby it builds up a groundwork for the reflection of contemporary affirmations in the official Catholic Church documents which further develop this doctrine. It discusses the justification of war, particularly with respect to a potential threat of a nuclear conflict and an immediate threat to humanity of worldwide terrorism. It examines possible and justifiable means needed for better understanding and the preservation of peaceful co-existence in Christian ethical thinking.