*Shaking my head in disbelief at Scott*

Scott, you just mentioned one of the primary problems I have with most of the cultures and religions that came out of Northern Africa (Christianity and Islam ) and Southern Europe (Greco-Roman): That is the innate misogyny of those cultures.

We of the Northern Faiths have always recognized our womenfolk as being humans, as having as many rights as men, and of being able to be responsible for their own actions to our Gods and our Ancestors. Yes, all of our actions as men or women affect our families’ orlog, and are the concern of the whole family, but each of us are responsible for our own actions. We feel no need to treat “the little woman” as being unable to take care of themselves. But then again, it was Freyja Eriksdottir who reminded the men of Vinland what it meant to be a Norseman when the Skraelings attacked. Even pregnant, she ripped off her bodice, beat her bare breast with a sword and faced off the attackers herself scaring them to the point that they broke off the attack.

I’ll take the heathen ways over yours any day.

Danny

Scott,

I read your post concerning women, and I will tell you, my husband doesn’t “Train” me, I am not a dog or a horse. And I am responsible for myself, and I will answer to God for what sins i commit, not my husband.

This is one reason I stayed away from church for so long, if I heard “You can’t do that, you’re a girl!” one more time, I would have gladly hit that person with whatever I could find.

I didn’t want to be a priest, a pastor, or a housewife. I didn’t want to spend my life raising children, cleaning house, or being someone’s “wife”. I wanted to join the military and see the world. When I tried to join the military, there were so many restrictions placed on me, I just gave up. I went to college and became a teacher.

When I met my husband, I told him he wasn’t my daddy, I didn’t need him to teach me the way I should go, or any of that. I fear a great many women have stood by and missed out on life because of attitudes like this.

I agree with very little the liberals but forth, but I am adamantly with the feminists on this. I do NOT agree with abortion, nor any of the other junk the liberals spout. But equality, I do agree with, and as soon as we ALL are recognized as humans, instead of male or female, the better off we all will all be.

madeline
shelby, nc

Hi Father J,

I am a 42 year old gal who lives in Central Pennsylvania. I love photography, animals and travel. I attended the lutheran church most of my life. I love your blog. I really enjoyed reading your entry on Barrack Obama. I don’t like to sound suspicious or negative but I’ve often wondered if he has a hidden agenda. I too can’t imagine how a person can go to the same church for 20 years and listen to the same person and not be affected by his words and opinions. If I attended a church and the preacher talked racism and hate, I would leave. I wouldn’t sit there for 20 years and listen to it. There’s no excuse for hatred. We all need to learn to love each other and start living by the ten commandments. God Bless you!

Dear Fr. Morris…

If you do read all of these posts? I am very concerned about Obama’s ability to have so many people who have been friends of his, including eastern men, who [may be terror sympathizers] who may be funnling cash to terrorists. [Do I believe Obama is personally aiding terror?] I do not know.
I do know that there are millions of people who are able to act a certain way in public, but then are practicing strange beliefs behind closed doors. I hope with all my soul, Obama is NOT such a person who would make his way into the white house so that he could make it easy for our enemies to get inside of our Government after he appoints his “friends” who are NOT who he thought they were for the 20 plus years he associated with these some 4 - 6 questionable people he has direct ties to.

Including the Now CONVICTED slum-loard of Chicago, the openly “hate filled preacher” and all who preach from that particular pulpit - including a white preacher who sounded like he was born and raised in Watt’s California! AND HE’S WHITE! and he felt ENTITLED TO SCREAM FROM THE PULPIT with all of the same “hate filled” nasty behavior as the Churches undecided retired REV.

In regard to Father Jonathan’s question….are we making too big a thing out of Senator Obama’s “churchgate”?…..Absolutely not.
I believe it’s most important for us to closely look at Senator Obama or anyone running for political office, including their religious beliefs. I firmly believe a person’s religious beliefs influence their lives, and therefore their actions. Senator Obama has clearly shown his beliefs in misguided spiritual teachings, so much so that he applauds their efforts to refuel hatred and mistrust in the common people. Very dangerous thinking……a president is suppose to unite people, not divide them.
Take care,
Laura

Comment by Joe
May 30th, 2008 at 10:37 am
I noted today that the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (aka Supreme Sacred Congregation of the Holy Office, aka Holy Office of the Inquisition) issued its latest decree concerning the ordination of women. It provides automatic excommunication for anyone involved in the ordination of women, and confirms the church’s position as perhaps the most sexist institution in Western civilization. Not only that, it dismisses half the world’s population as second class and inferior.

Joe - I think you are way off base here. The decree to not allow women to be priests has NOTHING to do with thinking half the world’s population are second class and inferior. The Catholic Church has several large orders of Sisters/Nuns that devote their life to God and are just as honored and supported as the orders of Monks/Priests in the Catholic church. There are several women that have been made Saints, Mother Theresa is the newest! A woman!!Hello….

Do not equate the restriction on women becoming priests, something even the Jews did not permit until recent times, as being sexist. In fact, God commands that a man be the head of his household. Responsible for the actions of his wife, children, employees, and himself. When I go to heaven, I will have to answer not only for my sins but theirs because it is my Duty to God to train them right, hold them accountable to HIS will and Law, and discipline them when they disobey God’s Word.

Comment by terrence green
May 30th, 2008 at 10:14 am
I attended Immaculat Conception Church in suburban Philadelphia during the 50’s being raised with beautiful songs sung in Latin and English and, of course, the Mass being recited in Latin; I miss it. Do you think that priests will ever be able to marry, as the Orthodox Christians insist their priests do? I have not read (in either the old or new testament) any reason why they should not be able to. If anything, I think it would help with the shortage of priests, especially in America. St. Paul wrote (and it is God’s word) that it is best to remain single, however he realized that not everyone can do this–don’t you think this should apply to priests too?
Terry

Terry…there is nothing in the Bible about priests not marrying. They did in the Jewish tradtition and they did in the beginning of the Christian churchs and Catholic church. The problem came about in the Dark Ages as the Papacy was split and the sale of indulgences was rampant. There came a time when the Bishops and high Church officials were in collution with the monarchs and they married their children off to seal deals and make political alliances. A Pope (forget which one, Father should know) banned the sale of indulgences and also banned the marriage of priests from that point on to prevent the craving of political power over the Power of God and following in the teachings of the Church. It has held ever since, I believe the ban was in place by the late 1100’s or 1400’s, I forget which.

“Oh, and one more thing. Please, if you would, take a moment now and make your first post. Without revealing your full name, tell us a bit about yourselves, where you are from, what you think about what I’ve explained above, and your suggestions of how to make this a helpful community for you. ”

Well, I usually do not post under my real name but for this and for Father Jonathan, I will. I am a Roman Catholic by birth and by choice, I was confirmed at age 14 because I wanted to and I believed in the teachings of the Church, I still do regardless of what some members or clergy do or have done. Currently I attend a nondenominational christian church that just happens to be 40% Catholic by make up since there is no real local Catholic church to us and my wife is simply Christian.

I am 36, father of 2 by birth, 3 more by marriage. I am well educated, not just by schools but life, I have a BS in Physics from UCLA and an MA Ed from Pepperdine University. I am born and breed in Southern California from a Kennedy Democrat Roman Catholic family. However, I grew up in the Reagan years and the man and his life and work have had a profound effect on my thinking. I am a Reagan Conservative for life. My brothers, sister, and I were taught from a young age personal responsibility, independence, and strength of convictions.

I found Father Jonathan’s writings over a year ago and since then have read every back dated blog entry I could. There is hardly an instant where I do not agree with his analysis of a situation. He is a Roman Catholic of the same vein as I, spiritual-religious yet with a high analytical logical thought process tempered by reality. I look forward to following and supporting his career as he might one day by my Pope. I believe he would make a great successor to Pope Benedict XVI in 20 years or so.

I believe this forum discusion can only help the life mission of Pope John Paul II, the reunification of the Catholic Church, Anglican, and other denominations under one banner. It is also a life mission that I feel God has placed in my life with a dream that rattles in my mind and has continued to since watching John Paul’s funeral a few years ago.

I talk straight, I don’t pull punches. If you are going to comment make sure your point can be backed by more than just emotional reasons. Facts, truth, logic are immutiable as are the ethics, moral, and values that God has granted His people on Earth. We are all His chirldren, no matter how disobedient we have become.

God Bless and LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!!
=)

Having an interactive site is a great idea! Judging by the number of comments thus far posted, and the absence of he crudity so often found, I think it will be a smashing success.

Although an Agnostic/Atheist, I have read your column for quite some time, and always find it enjoyable. I don’t always agree with you, but often do.

For such interest as it may hold, here is a link to a site on which I frequently post articles and comments. I have a feeling that many of the articles and comments — which are sometimes more enlightening than the articles — there might be right up your alley.

One small suggestion: since your site permits HTML code, it would be very helpful to have a “preview” button, because sometimes the code is confusing and people forget to close tabs. This problem can generally be prevented by allowing a preview.

Dan

Father Jonathon, I recently met you in Tulsa, OK. I really enjoyed that night. I believe, regardless of religious beliefs, that we need to go back to the set of rules I believe were given by God. These rules, the Ten Commandments, are also common sense rules for life. They aren’t bad and if we all lived by them we would all be better off. For example, most believe murder is wrong. Also, stealing and adultery can’t be justified. Oh what a better world we would have if we respected life this way. Thanks so much for this forum, Jim Bryan–Tulsa, OK

I am lay apologist. though I enjoy radio talkers like Rush and Hannity I have to conclude that they are woefully ignorant about theology. Would you dare tread, woud you dare denfend the faith concerning

Moirmonism is it christian or is it so hertical it does not even rise to level of the reformers? and shame on Hannity for saying that I speak out of ignorance. I have forgotten more about Mormons than Hannity has ever known.

Many Canidates say they reject abortion personally but…. Would you say that they are the worst. For if they reject it becuase they belive it is the taking of life in Gods image but what the heck kill it if it floats your boat. That is just wicked.

The forerunner the Leuage of Nations and the UN are built upon a socialist fascist frame work. Have you read Liberal Fascism by Johna goldberg? If you had you would reject giving the UN any credence.

Hi Father Jonathan -

I enjoy your columns, urging us to act as people of conscience, but also people of reason and responsibility. I’m a military retiree, have spent the last 10 years as a defense contractor, but found myself unemployed this Spring. I have found my way into the health care profession, just passed my licensing to become an Emergency Room Technician at Methodist Hospital and this Fall I will become the world’s oldest freshman at the Methodist School of Nursing. I look forward to intelligent commentary here during the election process as we decide the direction our country will follow in the coming years.

Father Jonathan:

Reading your columns has been a breath of fresh air–keep up the good work! How refreshing it is to read through your forum and find that practically all of your respondents are attempting to maintain the same high level of civility and respect, which appear to be in short supply in our public discourse. Christians of every stripe and denomination could greatly benefit by following your example: the same one Jesus himself taught when he said that the world would know that his disciples were his because of their love for one another (John 13:35).

By the way, I thought I would mention that my son here in Colorado Springs, your namesake, is someone of whom I am very proud: a senior graphic designer for Focus on the Family and a talented musician who is currently in the studio recording drum tracks with an up-and-coming Christian indie artist. I am so grateful for young people like you and him who are living out their faith and passing it along to the next generation!

Fr. Morris,

I would like to see a discussion on Faith Based Groups and there role in society.
Thanks for the time.

RK

Father Johnthan;
I wish to say that I have watched you on Fox News and was impressed. During the Pope’s visit I was watching and was impressed. I am a person that was raised with very little guidence and religion. However, over the years, I am now all most seventy, I have come to believe in a higher Power (a god)but not the organized religions that preach to parishers as in Obama’s church. I was very disappointed in Plighter’s sermon. After all the good feelings of the Pope and from your positive interviews had created in my heart, I hear that poor excuse for a human being, and lost all the good he has accomplished in his past work. I know that I should be less critical but how could that be allowed in any one church or churches. Over the years I have been talked down to, up to, and been disvowed by my family even told that I was “cocky” in my beliefs. I have never disowned a god and never said that we should not have a God in our life. What I do believe is that we all have a responsibility for own lives. That there are consequence for our actions. However, I do not believe that my God would ever not be there and withdraw from my side nor not give me support and comfort in time of my needs, when I am making decisions that effect my life. Life is lessons in growth for our soul. Best Wishes on this project.

45 yr old mother of three young adults and teenagers. Married 25 yrs. Active catholic. difficult time getting my 2 young adult children to understand the importance of attending mass weekly. they will attend for special occasions and holidays. just don’t want to make time. what can parents and the church do to help young adults see the light? they were raised catholics and attended mass regularly, until they went to college.
the church is missing such a great group of members, if only we could tap into thier minds..
keep up great commentaries..
midwest mom

Dear Father Johnathan,

I am a twenty five year old Texan. I am not Catholic, but I am an unashamed Christian. My girlfriend is a practicing catholic and I am learning quite a bit about this wonderful part of Christianity. I try to read your opinion columns often, but I am sure there are a few I have missed over time. I generally find your ideas and opinions very informative and thoughtful. I will confess though that I am terribly worried about the direction of this country and the apathy that so many Americans are displaying. Most of my friends are pretty liberal, but I am a conservative and typically find myself at odds with them. I know that most of my beliefs are because of my Christian upbringing, but there are several issue that I think transcend that belief structure. One of them is social services. If I remember correctly about eight or nine weeks ago you had published a piece on a poverty stricken family in Venezula who lived across the street from an elaborate government building. The mother in the article that you talked about was not trying to better herself or even properly care for her family; due to the fact that she believed that the government was suddenly going to come out and lift her up and take care of her. She had based these assumptions on the promises of Hugo Chavez, and the concern that I have is that I see the same “change” coming to America. When someone tells you that they are going to care for you it generally means that they want something from you. More importantly though, is the fact that empty promises like that create a system of laziness and disinterest. Today we have politicians promising things to people that they should be doing for themselves, and it will only bring our great nation down. We have gotten to the place we are today on a system of self improvement and fortitude. I was raised to believe that faith in God and hard work would provide for your survival, and I don’t think I will ever see the world differently.

Thank You,

Michael

I am continually amazed at the lack of rational, logical and moral discussions regarding the war in Iraq. Discussions about the agonizingly tough choices confronting our country’s leaders. Is it even possible in our contemporary political climate?

This is in reply to something Dave wrote a while back. Dave, you said something that caught my attention–you said that because morality is dictated to Catholics, that there is no place for common sense. The comment raised my eyebrow a bit because for the first 30 years of my life I practiced my faith mostly out of habit and to please my parents with nothing much intended beyond that. I did not fully buy into the morality thing that was “dictated” because to me it was not always in line with “common sense.” However, when I reached 30 I realized that the “common sense” I knew as a teen and early adult lacked something–it lacked much of the wisdom I had gained from experiencing life. So, ironically, it was “common sense” and life experience that showed me that the “dictated morality” of the church was actually packed full of the common sense I heard in my youth but that I was unable to recognize (because I lacked common wisdom due to inexperience) in my youth. So, at 30 it finally became apparent to me that this “dictated morality” made a lot of sense, and if I had practiced it more when I was younger, it could have saved me some self-inflicted damage done earlier while practicing the “common sense” I mistakenly THOUGHT I had. Does this even make sense? The reasons I have now for my moral direction is this (which I believe is based on common sense): If I were a physicist, would it be more effective and efficient to re-formulate Einstein’s E equals MC squared and start from the beginning to formulate my own theory, or would it be better to accept the truth it holds and move on from there to test the theory out? The same holds true for the Catholic teachings and wisdom that it has built up over the past 2,000 years by folks that have made mistakes and learned from them. I am now in the process of testing out these moral theories (for the sake of my physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual well-being), and by gosh the theories are holding true in every respect. Just thought I would share this thought with you. It has been my common sense path over the past 13 years, and I’ve never been happier… Respectfully, Chris

Father Jonathan.
I am a life long Catholic stationed in Kuwait.
Your articles have been amazing reading and I just wanted to say thank you. The Army has a huge priest shortage in Kuwait and although we are lucky enough to have a priest stationed here, it is still great to read your articles and feel that you are almost an advisor.

Thanks for your vocation and I continue to pray or more priest, a increase in vocations, and an end to the violence here.

Dear Fr. Jonathan:

I am glad to see your forum. I greatly appreciate your commentary on FNC. It will be interesting to read the opinions of others and learn from them.

So, thank you again for taking the time to do this. I have many questions, and perhaps i can find some of the answers to them here.

May you go with God

Madeline

Fr. Jonathan,

I read your column regularly. I am looking forward to this new forum.
Lots to read and lots to learn, I am sure.
I am a Catholic with three adult children. Daughter stayed Catholic, one son is Baptist and one son is Methodist. They were all raised as Catholics. The sons joined the churches of their respective spouses. They all are believers and are active in their churches. For that I am thankful.
I was divorced and married 20 years later to a divorced man. My first marriage was annulled shortly after the divorce. My present husband was a Lutheran but was willing to go through the annulment process with my pastor. He does not attend church. I always do and he never objects to that (which wouldn’t do him any good if he did). He knows how important my faith is to me and respects me for it.
When we married my mother told him “You don’t know how good it makes me feel knowing you are married in the Catholic Church so that Janice can receive the sacraments”. (He always loved my mother and that made him happy to hear.) She was not a person to say much but she did want him to know that. She passed away 7 yrs. later….but he had made her happy.
I have one question I would like you to answer if you would……I attended Catholic school from the 3rd grade through the 12 grade……still would like an answer to this question;
When someone dies, the soul goes “where”? Is there an immediate judgment?
I know that there is the final judgment? And where is the soul “in between”.
Could someone go directly to Heaven? I feel my Mom was such a saint and wonder if she is in Heaven. Should I pray “for” her or ask her to pray for “me”?
Do you believe in Purgatory? I still do but get a lot of flack on it.
Thanks Fr. for your column and I will look forward to your answer, too.
God Bless You for this endeavor and for all of your contributions….
Jan

Comment by Deb
May 28th, 2008 at 2:12 pm

Ah, but moral relativism can be dangerous.

Please forgive me for being a bit cryptic with my name. If you’re a Dr. Who fan, you’ll get it, and if not, you just think I’m a bit nutty. I’m cool with that.

I’m a Christian who is interested in politics, but I try not to get overly upset about things. I’ve come to realize in my old age (I’m 36) that God is, was, and will always be in control. That doesn’t mean that I’m not obligated to speak out when I know that something is wrong according to God’s word, but it certainly helps me accept things that I know aren’t morally right.

Whatever happens, God will always be in charge of things, and I know that everything is part of His master plan. Yeah, lol, that plan that I know nothing about. That reminds me of my husband’s father’s day gift, a coaster for his coffee at work (he’s a computer programmer) that says, “I’d love to change the world, but God won’t give me the source code.”

Father Jonathan:

I am a Catholic of nearly 74 years and I regularly read and enjoy your insightful discussions. I of course will have to plead guilty to being a conservative Catholic who still remembers, and at times longs for the Latin Mass. I spent six years in a Catholic seminary and find some of the “new” liturgy less than inspiring.

Nevertheless, I was shocked and appalled to see and hear the comments and rants of Fr. Phleger.

I suppose I was most shocked to learn how strongly he supports Mr. Obama.

I know there are many Catholics in politics who are “pro-choice” but when a Catholic priest so strongly supports a candidate that is so obviously in favor of lawful abortion I cringe when I think of the “example” he is setting, regardless of the past good that he has done in his community.

I anxiously await your comments

For TC: Use your dictionary! It is “disdain.”

For Mick: Science is increasing my awe of God, not “explaining away” what I hold in faith. Astrophysicists have followed time back to the Big Bang and still have no explanation for it except that “something happened!” I’m pretty sure I know what “happened,” but good theoretical scientists won’t be dogmatic. Scientists also acknowledge that our probes into space cause more questions than answers.

All areas of science enhance my faith with wonder for our Creator. I am almost 70 now and have returned to more active participation in my Catholic faith. I did this after I lost my only child, my son, and realized that the only way I’d see him again would be when my Lord brought me to Him.

Thanks Fr. Jonathan, for this forum. I’m putting it in my favorites right now.

A thought … Do you think that we Americans have become so apathetic, so reluctant to be involved, and so comfortable in our own little worlds that we haven’t even noticed that we have gotten to the point where our choices for the US President (probably the most powerful and influencial office on the planet) is a choice between Moe, Curly, and Larry? Americans, we have been asleep at the wheel way too long!

sam(missouri)

Fr. Jonathan: I will be happy to be enlightened by your comments on the subject of the Black Liberation Theology and particularly Fr. Pflager who seems to have thumbed his nose w/o concern to the Cardinals that have been in Chicago during his tenure of 25 years… which is unusual. He seems to have developed his own cult and the Church is afraid to act and remove him for disgraceful behavior. (although he has done some good things in the area) It has been deeply disturbing to see racism elevated in our current campaign when over the last 50+ years my family has worked hard to be open to people of all races. The homily this a.m. covered the disturbing trend of divorce in the U.S. and how less than 50% of our children will go through a lifetime w/1 partner. It is so much more important for us to concentrate on good that can be done rather than racism, sexism and materialism of all kinds. God Bless & Peace…K

Fr. Jonathan, yours is the 1st “Forum” I’ve ever posted on. Almost like the confessional in a way. Mass starts in about an hour so a good time to look forward to w/inspiration hopefull from the homily and strength from The Eucharist. When John Paul II passed, I can say I was not too sure about leadership from Benedict XVI. After his visit to the U.S. I decided to try to Learn more about him. Happy I did. Read “What It Means To Be Christian” sermons he gave in 1964. Wow! Brilliant. Followed that by “Jesus, The Apostles and The Early Church”..Although went through 16 years of Catholic education plus read many books on St. Paul and other saints, again I found his explanations/descriptions of great interest and I learned. Wanted to purchase your book but Borders in Scottsdale did not have it but I expect I’ll get it as a Fathers Day gift from 1 of my daughters. I did however, pick The Pope’s book on Jesus of Nazareth. Just started it but between the Foreward/Introduction and 1st chapter the brilliance of his approach is very effective. I’d recommend his writing to others. And I look forward to reading your book soon as it is 1 as I scanned it I hope to find of help to me and others in the family. God Bless all of you in The Vatican and thank you for your service to us. Even at my age, you are helping me grow in my faith. Peace & Love, K

Thank you Father Jonathan for this fourm. I’m a fan. I’m a Catholic of 48 yrs, father of 3 sons, who are serving our nation. They were raised the way my father raised his family. Respect all others, help those in need if you’re able. Live in peace with freedom and be ready to defend it against those who would take that from us all. That there is only one God, and all things are possble thru Jesus Christ.

I was fortunate to be born and raise in the hills around Valley Forge, Pa., not more then 22 miles from the great Indepence Hall, home of our Liberty Bell that announced America’s Freedom, Philadelphia Pa.

I look forward to the main discussion topic’s, opinions that will be brought to light in this fourm.

God Bless you Father Jonathan, and all of us. It’s an amazing gift that God has given us all, life. In life good and bad event’s will happen. I’ve seen good things come from bad events and bad things come good events. But I’ve learned not to question it. Just put one’s faith and trust in God and it will all work out. Yesterday I learned that I have cancer, and this morning I’ve learned that my son is coming home tomorrow from Iraq. I’m a very lucky man and I look forward to the future and what awesome experiences God has planned for us all. Keep the faith !

Father, thank you for opening this forum. We, my husband and I practice our Catholic faith with three children and a grandchild. This forum is Godsend and will help us all to reach out to each other in our time of need. Our country is at stake. If we do not come together and learn who we are and what we stand for, we will be lost. This world is so secular now that we, all of us, need to reach out in love and compassion. Thanks again Father. We need you! Rebecca

Reply to Paul Disser made yesterday to my entry:

Yes, Paul you are right, moral certitude vs terpitude would be best.

As a corollary to what I was saying, when people of faith run for office (an oxymoron?)- the secular world quickly questions whether their faith would be brought to “their office”. Not wanting to disassociate themselves from a large body of voters who are afraid that the candidate’s moral certitude will be imposed on them, quickly say “No, I will not impose my faith on you”. This is in fact wrong for three reasons - at various levels.

1. If you are a person of faith and you are not following its tenets, then you are not really what you think you are. And the fact, that you would put aside something that is supposedly near and dear to your heart, the essence of who you say you live by, says a lot about you and whether you should be a leader. It is one thing to say you are not going to be openly evangelical (in the sense of converting others to your faith) as opposed to just letting your core beliefs always guide your actions.

2. Going back to my original point in the previous submittal, we in fact, need more people of faith living their lives according to their beliefs and running for office. And we need people willing to stand up and make such a proclamation. Just doing so and not running from it, says something about your character. We don’t necessarily have to agree with the tenets of that faith for the public to benefit. As an example, in seminary, Mormonism was depicted as a faith closer to Greek Mythology (e.g. multiple gods, Jesus was the product of a god having sex with Mary, the 144,000 in Revelation are each going to get their own planet to rule over, etc.) than Christianity. Yet, I would have voted for Romney over the other Republican candidates in a pinch because I believe that they are guided by a set of moral values (despite their theological foundation) that are akin to what guides all Christians. I would not have expected Romney to try and convert the U.S. to Mormonism, but think I could of have counted on him to be guided by a set of moral guidelines that would have benefited the country. It is important in this debate to differentiate between the question of accepting a set of moral principles (you may or may not agree on them) versus having a person who has no guiding set of moral principles founded in a belief in God guiding them.

3. There are those that believe that one’s private life is not an indication of what their public life might be. I believe that you cannot separate the two. If a person is dishonest, not trustworthy, immoral, lacks integrity in his private life, how can one expect that person to be different in their public life other than for show?

There are many other issues associate with this question which of themselves are significant and would only serve to minimize them here by any short discourse. For example, we do have a basis in history for believing that and insisting that religion be separate from government - because men are imperfect and having not only the power of government but the power of religion presents some awesome challenges that are never met -whether it be the Muslim governments of today or when the Roman Catholics where a economic and political force before the reformation began. It is, however, one thing to have a belief that we are best led by folks who have a strong set of moral values stemming from core religious beliefs versus having a state mandated religion - which is something quite different. They are almost separate issues. Finally, while it is politically incorrect, I believe that it is principles based on Judaic-Christian values that serve us best as opposed to a precept founded and “stuck in” the Old Testament or something searching for the “inner truth”, transcendentalism, etc.

Regards,

Rich

In response to a comment by Gregory as follows: Can you help me understand how a fundamentalist ideology can weaken common-sense morality?

Common-sense morality by itself is not enough. It needs limitations to survive and have true meaning. Otherwise, such morality ends up just allowing everything to be, and the net result is that true freedom will be lost as well as the society that breeds it. History proves this. The Greek and Roman empires are good examples.

In order for morality to have sustained substance it needs other ingridients as well. It should be buffered with “common law”, both of the land and of a belief or religion. It should also be contingent on some true essences of spirituality or as you choose idealogy. Morality comes with a cost. Without the choices of what’s good, or what’s bad, then morality, even common sense morality, eventually becomes meaningless and will lose its valaidity.
Just remember, while great empires have come and gone, the major religions have endured.

Hi, Father Jonathon, This is in response to JD’s post concerning the colonials. JD, you must be really rusty on your history. I’d like to refresh it for you. The colonial period was a time of abysmal ignorance. They didn’t have the ready access to education that we have today, so they tended to be very superstitious and religious at the same time. Even today, practioners of voodoo and Santeria, for example, manage to mix the two together, despite the efforts of the Catholic Church to correct them. As for your other examples, it really helps if you keep the milieus of the 16th century and the 21st century separated. Why? Because if you or I had been in the 16th century, we would have been no wiser than anyone else of that time. And the same situation existed in Europe.
Another thing, every time some liberal notion comes down the pike, that doesn’t mean the Church is obliged to adopt it. Our tenets ARE set in stone and we are commanded to follow them. Today these are known as core values and family values. Those Christians who choose to ignore them are probably those who the Bible refers to as being “lukewarm”. I’d call them secular liberals in sheep’s clothing. Or maybe secular humanists- I haven’t decided on a term yet. Anyway, their marching orders clearly don’t come from the Church, but from elsewhere.
Well, what else have you got, JD?

Here is a question: there is a lot of mention here of the constancy of religion–either pro or con. I have made this point to Father J in emails in the past when he has made similar comments: Even the most conservative of you, today, would be the most left-field liberal if you were dropped into colonial America (or Europe); you (hopefully) believe that God does not ordain slavery; that women should have at least most of the same rights as men; that disease is caused by biological factors and not a curse from God; that homosexuals should not be thrown in jail; and so forth. At the time, all of these things were believed to be unbendable rules as laid out in the Bible. How do you parse this apparent inconsistency with the notion of the constancy of belief?

Suggestion for Father J– this forum would work better if there were an option to respond to a particular post… maybe suggest that to the guys at FOX in between their McCain rallies

Hi Mick,
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question.
The old testament does paint a frightening picture of the God I think of. Even believing as I do, I don’t pretend to understand it.
In reference to the monsterous things that have happened in the name of religion throughtout time…I keep in mind that these things were carried out by humans, not God. Just because they say they do them in the name of God, doesn’t make it His will. We were all given a ‘free will’ and as we can see many have chosen a dark path to use such a will.

I’m curious…..considering yourself an atheist, do you still feel a spiritual side? Something that compels you to be a good person or is it more a factual thing that a human just ’should’ be good?
Take care,
Laura

Thank you, JD, for giving me a little insight to other’s thinking/feelings. Your statement of us all being agnostic on some level is a very interesting one. I’m deeply sorry for the heartache you and your wife have been through, as I also am for all people who suffer great losses.

I know, for myself, even with my firm believe in God it doesn’t make it any easier to understand the suffering we see all aroud us. I agree with what Father Jonathan says in his new book, that through suffering we learn and grow. But, even that logic doesn’t always make sense when the suffering is of a child.
When I’ve encountered a loss, either personal or that of a stranger, I find myself not asking just “why”, but rather “why must it be so that we don’t understand”. At those times, I pray for comfort and peace of heart because I don’t think it’s possible for us to fully understand in this lifetime. I’m thankful that my inability to find reason hasn’t drawn me away from God though.

Please take care and God bless,
Laura

Fr. J,

I am a practicing Catholic, married, have three sons, and teach in a small college in Japan. I did doctoral studies in leadership at the University of San Diego where I was introduced to the works of Paul Ricoeur and where I also took graduate courses in Practical Theology.

In a class on World Cultures, I noted how mainland Chinese culture was modified by communist ideology that is now taught by 70 million party members. This party of workers believe that they can usher in a classless society through class struggle, albeit different from the struggle advocated by Mao. Theirs is a continuing manifestation of Marx’s faith in the ability of workers to transform society. I remind my students that this party is more than half of all Japanese.

I cite them in this response to your call for a common sense morality because our sense of what is good is borne out of work. Along with our ability to do anything comes the ability to evaluate. I make a hundred pots, I know which ones are better than others. Peter knew how to fish and his notion of perfection is defined by that activity. So after working all night and not catching any fish only to catch a bounty after getting new instructions, he knew he encountered perfection. Only his fellow-fishermen can appreciate his confession: You are Perfection Itself.

So in our search for common sense morality, we might do well to reflect on our ability to evaluate our work.

VL

In this politically charged atmosphere I am concerned that the moral fabric of those in power in our country is coming apart. I am more Independent than Republican or Democrat, though I definitely lean toward the conservative side. I have extreme difficulty understanding how those seeking or trying to maintain the power of political office can lower their standards for personal integrity to the point where they will do absolutely anything to grab that power. I don’t agree with some of the things the President has done. And I believe some of what the Democrats profess is quite admirable. I am a Roman Catholic. I believe George W. Bush is a good man, and certainly one of faith as well. Whether or not I agree with all of his policies and actions, I cannot help believing that throughout his term he has done what he truly believes is right and just. I saw the pain in his face as he stood at ground zero after 9/11. I saw his tears and felt his pain as he tried to comfort the parents of soldiers lost in Iraq. Yet he is accused by the Democrats of doing it all out of personal ambition, and of having no regard for the lives of the young men who have served so bravely there. Can’t we give the President some credit? Surely he has done something worth praising! In many ways he may be one of the better men to sit in the oval office, though arguably not one of the best spoken. He really has done many good things, but has been robbed of the credit due him. The manner in which he has been chopped up and thrown to the animals by the Democratic Party throughout his tenure is beyond belief. And what’s worse is that the media have assisted them with little journalistic conscience. Now, after lowering themselves to the depths of human decency, the American public is being asked to put a Democrat in his place. Are we to supposed to think these fine upstanding Christian citizens will do better? I pray we are smarter than that. I believe God asks us to put honor, truth and integrity before ambition, power and greed, to value all life, and to trust in Him. Can we not get past these dirty politics and petty differences, and work cooperatively to accomplish something better for our country? We will cease being the greatest nation on earth unless we can find new ways to bring out the best in each other. God has blessed our country abundantly, and, with humble hearts, we should ask him to continue to do that. Your forum is great Father Jonathan. Keep up the good work. I know You believe there is still hope for all of us.

I would like to propose as a topic for a discussion thread, not the specific words and actions of Rev. Michael Pfleger, but rather let’s explore what we think the Christian role is in the political realm.

I for one, often feel conflict in the dichotomy of living in a free society, and the personal responsibility I feel to show Christ to the world. I cannot reconcile the statements by politicians that they “personally oppose X or Y, but cannot impose their morals on others”. Don’t you feel that we go through election processes to identify these personal opinions exactly because we expect this information to affect the decisions made by the elected officials. I feel that the churches are hampered from speaking out to congregations from the pulpits by the threats of loss of tax exempt status, and that is not what the founding fathers intended by “Separation of Church and State”.

I fear a Taliban but on the other hand, I don’t want to live in Sodom & Gommorah.

Hi, I am concerned about mnay things in our country, most of all this raving lunatic so called “Father” that said the hateful things about Hillary, I am hoping that you, Father Jonathan will make some comment about it and tell us how are we supposed to deal with the hatred that seems to be coming forth at this time. I don’t go to church, but have beliefs that I feel are threatened by these angry sermons from two men who don’t even act like they are true men of God. I have been reading your stuff and agree with you.

Father J

I have been an avid reader of your columns. great work..I am an engineer in Iowa, married and have a step son. Both my wife and son have converted to catholicism.
I am thirsty for the truth, and read alot. I am currently reading your book.

Isn’t the church, the people. Not the buildings and everything else.

so, I am very excited to participate in this discussion.

god bless
Todd

I was visiting my father’s house a few years ago when there was a knock on the door. Outside there was a tall man, a Jehovah’s Witness. He asked me “Do you believe that the world is getting better or worse?” I immediately responded, “well, better, or course”. He appeared surprised by my answer. He said “Oh.. uhh… okay. Have a nice day” and left. I am reminded of that when I read a lot of these posts here– there is a common theme of “the world/nation is getting worse” due to a perceived increase in immorality. But consider: When this country was a colony of England, it was considered “moral” to burn people if they were accused of witchcraft. When this nation was founded, it was perfectly legal for one human being to own another, and even kill that person if they so desired. Women could not own land or vote. Even within the last century black people could not go the same schools or hospitals as whites. And this is not to speak of how our lives have been improved with science and technology. Reason and tolerance continue to improve the world. So I think when you consider the “immorality” of today’s world, you need to consider just how “moral” the world of the past really was.

Greetings from the Land of Lincoln, Father Jonathan! You write a great column that is beloved by many of all faiths. I am a cradle Catholic, former altar boy and lector. I am very proud to be a Catholic and love the fact that Fox is giving you a forum to speak the Truth of God’s world in your kind, firm style. Hope you come to Illinois on a book tour soon! May St. John Mary Vianney pray for you. May Our Lady bless you richly!

I am the Father of three girls (all in their 20’s) and the husband of a wonderful woman for 29 years. I was raised in a protestant church in New England (keep your religious beliefs to yourself), then became a Texas Baptist, and finally upon moving to Maryland became Pentecostal. I believe firmly in the truth of the Bible, the power of prayer, and God’s sovereignty. However, in our society it is not helpful to be judgmental of those who believe differently. I have had good friends and colleagues who were Catholic, Jewish, Mormon, and those who were not religious. I believe more is accomplished by demonstrating both love and a Christ-honoring lifestyle.

But to those who truly know me, I’m a fundamentalist Christian right-wing nut-job.

If you can’t laugh at yourself, you turn into a cactus; all prickly.

Finally, I do enjoy the thought you put into your articles. While being respectful of the Church you represent, you give real, out-of-the-box analysis of the subjects you tackle. I believe it helps all of us consider each issue from a fresh perspective.

Roger

Jesus said we are to help others in this world. I have a passion for those who cant help themselves and would like to work in such a field. I really have a heart for single moms. BUT….He has put me in a position where I sell…toilet paper. Very funny Lord. I hope to be able to do the work my heart longs to do, to help the down and out in the world. But maybe the down and out are here in the office I work in…………I think we should do what we can where we are. Maybe thats just a kind word to a grumpy salesman, patience with a rude customer. Not easy. I want to scream some days. I struggle not to become apathetic about the whole mess. I want to crawl into my apartment with a bottle of wine and a stack of movies and just disappear. But I cant do that. Some days all I can say to God is HELP, …and He does! Oh how He does. God bless.

Thats a good question Laura, and you will probably hear a different answer from every atheist and agnostic, I think it happened for me at about 12 or 13, when I started learning about religion, more than just the bible stories I learned as a child, but about the brutal history of Christianity in Britain and my first full readings of the old and new testaments. The God of the old testament was not a nice character after all, his crimes were numerous and his wrath and petty jealousy knew no bounds, this was probably the point I lost Christianity for good.
Then I learned of the other major religions and the religions that preceded them, I hit a real conundrum. Over 50% of the worlds population believe in the wrong God, how can so many people be wrong? What of the early religions of the Celts, Romans, Vikings and Greeks? So much older, and all but discontinued, how could I continue to believe with that knowledge, surely I had over a 90% chance of believing the wrong God no matter which I chose? So I chose agnosticism.
Now, the more I learn, the more I see of the world, and the more science uncloaks mysteries that could at one time only be answered by religion the further I swing toward full blown atheism and since the Popes recent hypocritical tirades against atheism, I hate to admit it, contempt for organised religion and the plights it has brought on this world. If one day I do find God again, I doubt it will be the same one as you. Peace.

Father J,
Thank you for this forum, I hope it will allow people to exchange ideas and views to maybe change the world around us.

I am originally from Wyoming but currently live in Phoenix, AZ. I have a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences. I am the mother of two and the grand mother of two. I wrote to you several months ago regarding one of your postings on Fox. I will never forget that you took the time to answer my e-mail comment - it met a lot to me as I was very depressed and it made my day for me. I have been baptised a Bap