“The Catholic Church is no stranger to criticism from those who disagree with its teachings, but the petition posted recently on the White House Web site to label the church a ‘hate group’ is beyond the pale, even in an age when an aggressive secularism seeks to marginalize the influence of religious belief.
“The church has long been criticized as ‘too dogmatic.’ Demands are constantly made that it change its 2,000-year-old teachings on marriage, family, sexuality, morality and other matters related to the truth about human beings. But even if others do not agree, the church understands that what it proclaims is revealed truth – the Word of God. The church’s teachings are timeless. They cannot be changed, even though adherence may be upsetting to some. That the church is built on a rock with fixed beliefs is a positive feature, both because it can withstand the shifting winds of public opinion and because of the cherished content of our faith itself, which fosters love among Catholics and non-Catholics alike.”
In a recent commentary in the Washington Post, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington, reflected on what the Church is and does and on how the teachings and works of the Church advance the common good of all.
To access Cardinal Wuerl’s complete essay, please visit:
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