‘Bishops and Economics’
It was with a great deal of consternation that I read Kevin Finn’s letter (Nov. 3), “Bishops and Economics.” Had the letter been written by a member of the fundamentalist right, I would not have been surprised with its bizarre logic or the self-righteous manner in which it was written. Jimmy Swaggart and Jerry Falwell would have loved it. But it was not written by a member of the religious right, it was written by a Roman Catholic who, according to the way he tells it, is “very concerned with the plight of the poor.”
As a Roman Catholic myself and as one who is in complete accord with my bishops’ efforts to confront the many inequities that permeate our entire socioeconomic structure, I wish to add my voice in support for the courageous stand they are taking on this important issue. As a Catholic, I feel a great deal of pride in knowing that my church’s leaders possess the moral integrity to address these controversial issues, knowing full well that they risk an onslaught of criticism from those who want to maintain the economic status quo.
Finn tells us that he has always disliked our government’s “style” of charity because it is cold and uncaring. I wonder if he were to find himself in the unfortunate position of having to accept some form of charity and the only source of that charity was the government, if he would refuse to accept it because he did not care for the “style” with which it was administered; I think not. He would no doubt accept it, as do those less fortunate in our society who have no choice but to accept charity wherever they can get it in order to survive.
Near the end of his letter, Finn states that “he is sorry that the bishops feel the way they do” and that “he doesn’t know where they get their ideas.” If in fact Finn does not understand the source of the ideas that compel our bishops to pursue the goals of social and economic justice for all Americans, then I fear that he, as have so many other Christians in our society, has failed to understand the basic Christian precept of helping those who are powerless to help themselves.
Lastly, Finn states, “but most of all I am embarrassed to have to speak out and correct my church leaders. I pray that God will guide them.” Well, Mr. Finn, if there is anything embarrassing, it is the fact that you have so grossly misinterpreted the intent and purpose of this very noble effort to bring about some badly needed changes in our economic system.
Social justice is imperative if we are to maintain a healthy and vibrant economic system; fortunately the Good Lord has provided our bishops with the insight and wisdom to understand and appreciate this very basic reality; I will pray that he will also enlighten you to this same understanding.
ROBERT A. McKENNON
Hacienda Heights