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Bridget Mary's Response;
Even though conservative bishops are resisting an open conversation about the hot button issues, Pope Francis is bringing the hierarchy kicking and screaming into the 21st century. Yes, we need a pastoral approach to LGBT, but, we also need to change the teachings that demonize gays. Yes, we need to affirm women as equals in our church, but until women priests are officially accepted by the institutional church, women will still be second class citizens. Yes, the divorced and remarried should be able to receive Communion, but until they do, our churches will be half-empty.
However, I welcome Pope Francis' efforts to shake things up a bit in the Catholic Church. And I am not surprised that the conservative bishops and some Catholics are miffed!
What I'd like to say to these folks is: do you think that Jesus, who spent his time with the marginalized and excluded, would refuse communion to anyone?
From the reactions of Cardinals Burke, Chaput, and Dolan, you would think the Catholic Church was heading over a cliff or worse!
Hey, as the young people say, guys, take a chill pill!
While I'd like to see a big holy shakeup, Pope Francis has simply rocked the boat of Peter a wee bit.
Out of chaos, comes creativity.
God has blessed some pretty big messes in our world and in our church through the ages.
Don't you think She can do so now?! Bridget Mary Meehan, ARCWP, www.arcwp.org
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