Friday, October 3, 2008

Now THAT'S A Bishop!

That'd be Bishop Joseph F. Martino, of Scranton, PA. From Catholic News Agency:

Bishop of Scranton pledges vigilance in correcting pro-choice Catholic politicians

Scranton, PA, Oct 2, 2008 / 04:12 am (
CNA).- Bishop Joseph F. Martino of the Diocese of Scranton has directed a pastoral letter on pro-life matters to be read at all weekend Masses of the upcoming Respect Life Weekend, saying Catholic efforts on such issues have “more significance than ever.” Discussing the societal breakdown in the wake of the sexual revolution, Bishop Martino explains Catholic teaching, and pledges “vigilance” in correcting Catholic pro-abortion rights public figures..."

Here are excerpts from His Excellecy's letter:

"Another argument goes like this: “As wrong as abortion is, I don't think it is the only relevant ‘life’ issue that should be considered when deciding for whom to vote.” This reasoning is sound only if other issues carry the same moral weight as abortion does, such as in the case of euthanasia and destruction of embryos for research purposes. Health care, education, economic security, immigration, and taxes are very important concerns. Neglect of any one of them has dire consequences as the recent financial crisis demonstrates. However, the solutions to problems in these areas do not usually involve a rejection of the sanctity of human life in the way that abortion does. Being “right” on taxes, education, health care, immigration, and the economy fails to make up for the error of disregarding the value of a human life. Consider this: The finest health and education systems, the fairest immigration laws, and the soundest economy do nothing for the child who never sees the light of day. It is a tragic irony that “pro-choice” candidates have come to support homicide -- the gravest injustice a society can tolerate -- in the name of “social justice.”

Even the Church’s just war theory has moral force because it is grounded in the principle that innocent human life must be protected and defended. Now, a person may, in good faith, misapply just war criteria leading him to mistakenly believe that an unjust war is just, but he or she still knows that innocent human life may not be harmed on purpose. A person who supports permissive abortion laws, however, rejects the truth that innocent human life may never be destroyed. This profound moral failure runs deeper and is more corrupting of the individual, and of the society, than any error in applying just war criteria to particular cases....

While the Church assists the State in the promotion of a just society, its primary concern is to assist men and women in achieving salvation. For this reason, it is incumbent upon bishops to correct Catholics who are in error regarding these matters. Furthermore, public officials who are Catholic and who persist in public support for abortion and other intrinsic evils should not partake in or be admitted to the sacrament of Holy Communion. As I have said before, I will be vigilant on this subject."

In other words:

1) Joe Biden or Nancy Pelosi (for example), should not present themselves for Communion.

2) If they do, the Priest or Extraordinary Minister should not admit them.
3) Bishop Martino will be watching to make sure his orders are carried out.

Now THAT'S a Bishop!

All emphases added. The full letter is here.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I wholeheartedly agree: "Now THAT'S a Bishop!"

Here in the Dallas / Fort Worth area, "The Bishops Kevin" (Vann and Farrell) issued a similar statement to their flocks this past Wednesday, October 8. To my knowledge, this has only been noticed by Whispers in the Loggia (http://whispersintheloggia.blogspot.com/2008/10/faithful-citizenship-k-far-edition.html). Nothing in either of the local papers (The Dallas Morning News and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram). Nothing even from the pulpit (at least in my parish, St. Michael's, in Fort Worth) or available within the bulletin or separate handout. It's as if nothing has been said at all!

I only learned of it because a priest friend sent me a copy so, apparently, the statement was distributed to the priests of the diocese, although it is obvious that they are not the only intended audience.

Anyway, I thought you would like to know that there continue to be Bishops speaking out with courage. Whether there are priests or laity actually listening is another question!

The full document can be found at http://www.cathdal.org/img/Flash/EngFarrellVann.pdf

You don't need to post this comment. I understand they are moderated. This was just the only way I knew how to communicate with you. Do with the information what you will.

God continue to bless your work.

Terry Carroll
terry@mrterryc.com