Happy Easter and various thoughts

[kmbh]

Firstly, a happy easter to those who celebrate. I am not overly religious but I do acknowledge the importance of my faith (Catholic) in my life and acknowledge the significance of these days. Easter isn't just about chocolate,lol

Comments

[caitrin]

For me, it is less about a dislike for Pope Benedict and more about not wanting to associate or affiliate myself with (or give money to!) an organization that condemns things I believe in (equal rights for all) and officially sanctions the cover-up of abuse. In my home diocese, the church is fighting against a law that would remove the statute of limitations for child abuse because they don't want to be prosecuted. I believe that example was the last straw for my parents.

I do have a very personal connection with my faith. That's completely separate from what institutions I choose to support. I see sitting publicly in a pew as a show of support for the hierarchy of the church, and I don't want to do that. I hope that explanation of my motivations makes sense.

Oh, and I DEFINITELY agree that there are some great priests and nuns out there!

[kmbh]

I can see why some would think to sit in a Church is a sign of support. And yes, it is in some ways. But we've sat in churches for hundreds of years as it upheld beliefs that are now no longer a part of church teaching. Or that seemed plain dumb ie can't attend weddings in Anglican churches! Being a part of a community is a wonderful feeling. As is having a sense of a church that has a history going back so long. I don't get to mass every week but being there this Easter did hit home to me that expressing my faith in this forum, where I can receive communion, is an extension of that personal relationship.

Just as we can affiliate and belong to a policial party without accepting every single thing it says, we can do the same with a church. Any church. Christian or otherwise.

I know it isn't 'fashionable' to profess a faith. To do so usually labels you as 'conservative' or worse. But I think the Jesuits might beg to differ on that perception,lol!