catholicsphere

Take a look around the Christian landscape today and it might be difficult to see any distinction between the Church and the secular world. For clarification, when I refer to the Church, I am referencing the wider Christian community.

Many segments of the Church are heavily involved in politics. In secular circles, this involvement often results in a chorus of “separation of Church and State” or that “faith should not be mixed with politics”. However, as we look back at recent history, it becomes apparent that government officials are responsible for this, by legislating certain moral principles. While it may have an interest in regulating matters that touch the moral realm, government also has a duty to do so without taking a position on those matters. It should not force any moral ideology on members of society.

Two areas where government has forced a moral opinion on the people are on abortion and homosexuality. The reason to include abortion in this group should be obvious. But homosexuality perhaps not so obvious. “Tolerance” of homosexuals, and even celebration of homosexuality, is made part of the curriculum in our schools, such as mentioned in this article, this article and … this one.

Now, fresh on the heels of election victories that won them control of the Congress, Democrats are vowing to bring back the Embryonic Stem Cell Research Funding Bill. At this point, they may very well have the majority to override the veto of the President. This item is the most recent example of government pushing an issue that is morally and ethically questionable. Supporting ESCR with taxpayer funding forces this on those who hold that human life is sacred and should not be destroyed in order to create a better quality of life for those whom can afford the therapy.

That said, let us go back to the statement that the Church and the secular world are separated by a line that seems to continually be blurring. Divorce and co-habitation appear to be as prevalent among Christians as elsewhere in society. Opinions on abortion, homosexuality, ESCR, and contraception only vaguely show a divide between devout church-goers and those who attend on Christmas and Easter, if at all. Recent news of pastors engaged in misconduct come right along side that of politicians plagued by scandal.

What is it that the Church should be seeking, and what is it that the Church should be witnessing?

[Tomorrow: Embracing the Secular Culture]

[tags]church, state, politics, culture, faith, morals, law[/tags]