I was looking for something on St. Francis and 'perfect joy' and the Canon 915 photo popped up, which reminded me of the Westboro Baptist photo. It's what some religious people feel called to do - and they call it 'truth in charity'.
I know the photos are different, and the Catholic one is (supposedly) expected to be 'remedial' - yet the tone/expectation is often the same among Catholic correctors.
Last evening I watched a bit of Catholic TV, switching from Arroyo, I caught a video from Fr. Mike Schmitz on confession for adults. I love that guy. Afterword, Voris' Church Militant aired. What a huge difference between the two. As is typical, Voris slammed the Church of nice and went after Fr. James Martin, SJ. Like I said, what a contrast.
That's all.
The tone is similar but not the same. They believe that they have God's message, know his mind and will impose it on everyone. I know people who use "Christian charity" as their excuse for venting their views as a means of correction. I never see much in terms of love your neighbor or examples of the Beaditudes.i avoid these people but their right to express their opinion is in the Constitution. It is my right to ignore them.
ReplyDeleteIf I had to ask advice about the Church on any topic I would go to Fr. Mike. He's orthodox but approachable. We have to build trust - Voris and Westboro do not inspire that. And Fr. Martin just tickles itchy ears.
ReplyDelete"Voris and Westboro do not inspire that"
DeleteI agree. Online there are many who lack the grace needed to inspire others to seek Christ and His Church that includes folks who gossip, make outrageous claims as if fact, give the impression that they can read minds and hearts of the ones they criticize, "he said/she said" types.
Been there done that. I can tell you it is a poison to the faith both personal and public.
I can't believe you comparing Westboro and Voris. They are nothing alike.
ReplyDeleteI don't think anyone did compare Voris to Westboro.
DeleteYes, Westboro have never been active homosexuals, and have never given anti-Semitic conspiracy kooks a public forum on their TV show. Neither did Westboro openly slander a local diocese to cover up their own problems. Neither did they give a public forum to the pervert Milo Hanrahan. As you say, there is no comparison.
DeleteGee wilikers ... I really need to get out more often. I have missed the drama of the Voris network I see ... meh, not worth my time.
DeleteYou make a good point, Terry. Screaming at people and making them feel stupid and ashamed will never make them see the light. It only makes them angry or secretive. It is far better, and the Christian and Franciscan way, to reasonably and kindly and calmly preach the truth with charity and logic. If they don't listen, you've done your best. And if they listen, maybe they will change their view. God bless all here - Susan, ofs
ReplyDeleteI like this approach. It reminds me of a quote from St. Bernadette when she was talking to someone about explaining the apparitions of the Blessed Mother at Lourdes. She said she had been asked to tell about it, not make others believe it.
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