Can I continue to call myself Catholic?

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Permalink Reply by Austin from Earth! on October 25, 2008 at 9:08am

I'm Catholic too, but I've never agreed with the church on these issues. I don't feel I have to either. I think the church should stay out of politics, and that politics should stay out of church.

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Permalink Reply by Sherry on October 25, 2008 at 9:24am

I also feel that politics and religion should be separate - as originally intended - but the lines are blurred. I am a bit cynical, but believe that there is too much money in the business of religion for the politicians to stay out of it, so they often stoke the "morality" issues for political and monetary gain. They may get the support and power they want, but it seems to be leaving people to simply question their faith. Interesting topic Liz - I'm sure there will be many differing opinions.

xoxo Sherry

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Permalink Reply by Jenny M on October 25, 2008 at 9:47am

Liz,
Its not just Catholics. Religion all over the place is casting thier votes on what they deem correct.
I grew up catholic, but switched to free methodist 6 years ago, and my church has thier issues with this election as well

generally when the "Religious" folk get up on thier high horses, and begin to condemn Obama, they generally will quote Revelations. The funny thing is, they aren't even well read in it. They are actually quoting a fictional book series called Left Behind

These are the times I like to quote Paul, in saying, beware of false teachings from religious leaders. They will teach falsely just to gain a following.

There are many issues that need to be addressed in our country, and religious leaders will answer to God for abusing thier power in trying to swing a vote to support thier own personal beliefs and agenda.

Keep Faith, thats the most important. Religion is a place you practice your faith, Faith is in your heart, and God knows that :)

God Bless,

Jenny M

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Permalink Reply by Audrey on October 25, 2008 at 10:20am

Liz, I'm surprised this is the first time you came across this kind of message. I'm Catholic and this has been a constant message over the years. I have my own beliefs and convictions about various matters, such as I've been divorced (more than once). But nevertheless, our God is a loving and forgiving God. I have gone to other churches but the Catholic faith has my vote, because I look at how much the positive outweighs the negative. When I listen to mass, I hear about our forgiving God, how Jesus died for our sins, and the importance treating others well. On the rare occasions when I've joined firends at their church, I've heard the entire congregtion be called out as sinners - and that's just not for me. I know I'm not perfect, but i don't need someone from the pulpit shouting it out to me. I like the gentle reminders on how to work with God's plan.

So by all means, you can certainly call yourself a Catholic if that's what you choose. You don't have to agree with every issue. And I can assure you that many other religions get involved or try to influence their parish members on politcal matters.

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Permalink Reply by Liz R on October 25, 2008 at 11:30am

Thanks for your response, Audrey. You're right, I have come up against this type of message many times. I think after the year I've had, I just need more clarity in my life. I think (and hope) that the majority of Catholics feel as you and I do about the Mass, about our forgiving God and about many of the man-invented laws of our Church. It has become more and more difficult for me to ignore the hypocrisy of some of our leaders. I felt differently when I was younger, but at this stage of my life, I feel personally that I DO need to agree with those who preside over my chosen practice of faith. Especially on my values and life priorities.
Even if I change my denomination, I will continue to hold dear the beautiful ritual of the Mass. And I agree with you on the fire and brimstone preaching... not something I need. Peace, Liz

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Permalink Reply by Callie on October 25, 2008 at 10:20am

OK.. Now slow down. I know you are angry as well you should this priest should be reported and sent to the archdiosese along with that bulletin.. if that doesn't do the trick then vatican I would research the right committee. The big issue here is no priest has the right to withhold a sacrament on the bases of a vote or personal beliefs. He is wrong. All cradle and non-cradle catholics know this. You are to vote you on mind and heart in a mindful way along with your values.. but this is why the church and the state should never get intermingled. He is wrong. Period. Could be fired for that little act and remember just because he wears a collar does not make him perfect or a good person. I am sure he is; but he has gone off his nut......Some have a really close relationship with thier priest some dont.If you do talk to him.. if not..I get that.. If you are not the only person having a problem why not bring this to his attention... You will have more power as a group, if not, then forward anonomyously that little not from above. We as ministers know that you cannot replace in the faith based system a good catholic, or any person of faith they change the enviorment around them and the children they touch and show that just as it is a vocation to be a religious it is a vocation to be a good catholic or protestant, muslim or jew.. so dont quit.. move if need be.. do what settles you heart. I am sorry this is happenening it is getting really ugly here, too. I agree with Austin..... the church should stay out of politics and politics should stay out of the church. Amen.............Now while I have your attention brothers and sisters of the fold may I pass the hat for a new pair of Loubition shoes......ROFL.. ;) love you. Callie

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Permalink Reply by Liz R on October 25, 2008 at 11:19am

THanks, Callie Wait...isn't "Loubition shoe the Loubition shoeless an act of corporal mercy?? : ) haha
I appreciate your suggestions and I would love to find a parish where I would feel more in touch with the leadership.
Our parish had a visitor priest who is a professor at a nearby university. He used to say noon Mass and it was always a "full house" His sermons were excellent. Short but so memorable and always thought provoking. He stressed the responsiblility we have for service and love for others. Our pastor was pleased to see the pews filled. Sadly, that beloved pastor died. The new pastor, young and very traditional, stated that HE wanted to get to know the parishioners and since the noon Mass was packed every Sunday, he should be presiding instead, knowing that this Mass was the only one the professor priest could say, because of time restraints. ACK!
A petition signed by 200 members to bring the prof. priest back was ignored. Many of the parishioners who attended that Mass have left for other parishes or churches.

I am just at a point in my life where I want to stand clearly for my beliefs. I guess I am trying to formulate what a "good Catholic" means. Can I be a good Catholic if I don't agree with the Pope? I used to believe we could change the Catholic Church from within. But that belief is slowly being crushed. The heiarchy will not budge. I have found many of the younger priests even more rigid and conservative. I have started researching other Christian churches. I definitely want to be a good Christian. Love you too, Liz

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Permalink Reply by Vivian on October 25, 2008 at 10:34am

Hi Liz,
I too was raised catholic. I was at church every Sunday for mass and any other time the doors were opened! Now I like to refer to myself as Christian (or Cafeteria Catholic). There is a lot of good things to choose but so many I don't agree with. Politics should not be discussed in church or the bulletin. Why would they want to take room away from such important discussions as helping thy neighbor??? Love, peace etc.?? I do also think that the priest should be reported, (who does he think he is God??). How dare he! But don't get me started! Keep love in the church and finger pointing and hatred out! Is that possible?? Viv

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Permalink Reply by Jenny M on October 25, 2008 at 10:44am

Just an after thought, though we find ourselves upset, when an individual holds themselves in such high regard enough to withhold a sacrament, we also have to remember, not to brand all priests and religious leaders as bad choice makers.

I always try to remind myself, of the one verse in the Lords Prayer. ........and Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

We are going to be forgiven as we forgive,

and yes, while it is wrong for individuals in a leadership position to use thier position for thier own political agenda, it would also be wrong if we did not forgive them.

Pray hard for these individuals, because they to, are in need and deserving of Gods Love and forgiveness.

God Bless,

Jenny

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Permalink Reply by Liz R on October 25, 2008 at 11:38am

Jenny, How right you are. My friend who does pranic healing for me (a devout Catholic herself), told pranic teaching also stresses that we should all send love and blessings to those who sin against us. And if it's too difficult to send them love, pray that the angels send love to them for us. I thought this was a beautiful practice. "Love your enemies" is one of the toughest directives Christ has given us. Peace, Liz

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Permalink Reply by Linda Ann on October 25, 2008 at 11:12am

That is not just a Catholic issue, alot of Churches offer what they call "guidance" for voting, tons in our area, esp since this is such a heated election. The priest at our Catholic Church is for Obama. At best the Churches should stay out of politics and visa versa. I have told the pastor I come to church to worship plain and simple. If I want to hear about political views, I turn on the TV. I too raised all my life Catholic and a "PRACTICING" Catholic, but no church is perfect. I have friends from different faiths that also question their "CHURCHES" . But we all steadfast practice and embrace our "RELIGIONS", that is the difference we all agree on.

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Permalink Reply by Goony on October 25, 2008 at 11:33am

I was raised catholic and as an adult I have taken my children to church only a handful of times because I just don't agree with what is being preached and ended up walking out of there pretty upset last time we went. The preist was actually preaching to NOT use condems. I'm sorry but my boys are very young, and not only do I not agree with his messsage, but I don't need to be explaining to my young boys what a condem is! I don't know what to call myself now. But as far as politics and religion goes, my voting location is acutually IN A CHURCH!

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