For some reason that I cannot explain, I have taken greater notice of Catholic voices online. Sometimes it is due to news I receive via e-mail. For example:
"Our nation cannot afford a shrill and shallow debate that distorts reality and reduces the options to 'cut and run' versus 'stay the course.' Instead we need a forthright discussion that begins with an honest assessment of the situation in Iraq and acknowledges both the mistakes that have been made and the signs of hope that have appeared.... Our nation's military forces should remain in Iraq only as long as it takes for a responsible transition, leaving sooner rather than later." - Bishop Thomas G. Wenski of Orlando, Florida, in a statement on behalf of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.I received that in a Sojourners missive. The same e-newsletter included this story about a professor at an Evangelical college who was asked to resign after converting to Catholicism.
Finally, Rev Ref posted this about the Intelligent Design debate. "Basically the author, Fiorenzo Facchini, is stating that I.D. is not science, it is more philosophical and/or theological in nature."
In my usual sweeping generalization, I want to say that if these stories represent any trends, and they may not, we may be witnessing a re-emergence of theological difference. Now that "moral values" are on the political radar, religious institutions are receiving more attention in the press. And they are perhaps more compelled to play their hands publically. I don't know what it might change that will make a difference in the next presidential election. It is premature to speculate with accuracy. But it would be interesting if a Catholic voice were to articulate itself and demonstrate that it does not share all things in common with American conservative evangelicalism. That fact may not change election results. We will still only have two candidates from which to choose. But if these voices can bring wider public debate about issues like military involvement in foreign countries (war) and our educational system (teaching intelligent design in public schools as science), then let them speak.
Posted by tripp at January 20, 2006 08:24 AM