I'm glad I'm not the only one to notice that
Bishop Jugis's gobblygoop of a few days ago was nothing more than a plop of namby-pamby waffling pabulum.
Catholic Culture's analysis of it is far more thorough than mine. They're right. In his cowardly attempt to be "all things to all people" he squandered a perfect teaching opportunity. Here's hoping and praying that he instructs his priests to immediately commence "remedial catechism" from their pulpits - no matter how many hissy-snits may result. If anything should have shocked the good bishop, it should be the abysmal ignorance of the Faith that so many adults in his diocese have demonstrated these past few days.
I'm double-posting the comment which I also put on Catholic Culture. I'm personally conflicted. A good friend, very orthodox and daily Communicant, lives in the Charlotte diocese and regards Bishop Jugis very highly. So here's my (cautious) take on the matter. I agree it could the bishop's statement could have been clearer and stronger, but....well...let us see how things in that diocese develop.
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Well, on the other hand, the diocesan spokesman already issues a statement saying sister was in conformity with Church teaching. And the chaplain has also been supported by the diocese. I agree it could have been stronger, but when you are in the middle of a bone dry field, maybe it's prudent not to drop a lit match. With orthodox friends in Charlotte who admire him very much, I'm inclined to cut him some slack.
I've got to disagree. One cannot sacrifice truth on the altar of "prudence" - ever - especially a bishop. He voiced support for everyone - except Sister Jane. This was utter capitulation to loud-mouthed coyotes. If indeed he is held in regard by orthodox Catholics, they (and we) must hold his feet to the fire on this one; else he may well be tempted to resort yet again to the path of least resistance. Slack? I'll cut him not one millimeter.
DeleteI am preparing an open letter to Bishop Jugis on this matter that I'll post before nightfall.
I don't really think that's quite fair, Janet. The diocese made it clear that Sr. Jane is welcome to speak in the diocese at any time. I would have liked a stronger response, but how did he "sacrifice the truth?" Neither did he support everyone. He certainly made it clear that the vicious behavior of the parents was unacceptable. He didn't identify them, but from all the articles it was clear who those folks were.
ReplyDeleteWhile David Hains stated she'd be welcomed back, why did the bishop not reiterate that? And yes, he did voice support of the parents in the second line of his statement, " During this difficult time I want to express my support and encouragement for all the parents, students, staff and faculty at the high school." It would have been fine - if he had included Sister Jane too. Oftentimes when one tries to please everybody, they accomplish nothing (at best).
DeleteGobbledygook.
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Delete??????