Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022 | 2 a.m.
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The Jan. 27 guest column by Bishop George Leo Thomas, “Congresswoman’s position on reproductive care inconsistent with the teachings of her professed faith,” brings to mind the words of Pope Francis: “Be a pastor, don’t go condemning.” The bishop has clearly ignored the pope’s entreaty, and has publicly condemned Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev., based on her views on women’s reproductive care and rights. This is a plain and unwarranted political attack , and unjustifiably questions her right to receive communion.
With his myopic, truncated and selective opinion, the bishop conveniently ignores the beneficial things Lee has championed: education, benefits for seniors and veterans, and family and workers’ issues. These efforts are consistent with the stated goals of the Catholic Church, as articulated by the bishop to advocate and help others so there are no second-class citizens, and no throwaway people in society.
As the bishop is so deeply and devoutly dedicated to the dignity and sacredness of human life, he should publicly encourage all Catholics to get fully vaccinated. Many attendees at masses, and even staff members of some churches, remain staunch anti-vaxxers.
Again, Pope Francis has clearly stated that it is a person’s moral responsibility to take care of themselves and get vaccinated, which translates into respect for the health of others and the dignity and sacredness of human life. Accordingly, the bishop should encourage all diocesan members to get vaccinated rather than engage in political attacks on elected representatives.
