Being Catholic Today

Jesus Christ is Risen! Alleluia! He is Risen indeed! Alleluia!

    How is it possible to be pro-life, pro-birth, pro-woman, pro-family and Catholic today?

    In order to adhere to all of the above, we must begin by acknowledging God’s love as expressed through God’s compassion, fidelity, forgiveness, mercy, and justice toward us. Because these principles are in God, they are also in us who have been created in the image and likeness of God. We cannot be God, but we can be like God. In fact, that is why Jesus became flesh. Jesus, the Christ, came to show us what a human being is like when he or she obeys God, so that we might imitate him.

To be truly pro-life and not just “anti-abortion,” we must acknowledge that ALL life is valuable. The Catholic Church teaches that the taking of any life is a great tragedy. Capital punishment (death penalty), war, and self-defense continue to present moral dilemmas to many Christians. However, the Church teaches that capital punishment is no longer a necessary form of punishment for crime, even murder. Also, in terms of war, for centuries the Church has utilized a so-called “just war theory” whereby certain criteria must be met before a war can be considered just. Sovereign nations are not likely to have the same criteria, but have been known to consider the value of the church’s moral teaching on war. The bar is very high. Rare is the just war. With regard to self-defense, the one defending himself must not intend to kill the other, but only to defend himself or other vulnerable ones. Death may occur, but it cannot be the first intention. This is a difficult distinction to make in a moment of crisis. We do well to consider our moral stance about life and defending life before we ever face such a moment. If one has a violent first reaction to any perceived aggression, it will be difficult to form a measured response in self-defense. Offering one’s life might be the best response. Christ-centered people must think in Christ-like terms.

Finally, by the time a woman knows she is pregnant many decisions have been made for which she and others must take responsibility. The promiscuity of men who pursue women in order to engage in sexual relations is an inadequately unacknowledged aspect of unexpected pregnancy. The Church teaches that sexual intercourse is sacred. This act is intended for deep intimacy and unity, not as a reaction to a feeling, nor as a way to be accepted by others. Given the fact that the woman may become pregnant, sexual intercourse is to be reserved for the most blessed of relationships, as in marriage. (More on this in the coming weeks)

Jesus Christ is Risen! Alleluia! He is Risen indeed! Alleluia!

Peace, Fr. Andy