Reply #71: Thanks, Tinoire [View All]

[lastliberalintexas]

I've always enjoyed your posts, and especially your research! I'm afraid there are some here who would certainly disagree with your opinion of me, though!

I do agree with your characterization of so many of these people as pseudo-religious, as that is how I've referred to them as well. For far too many of them it seems that their religion is just a cover or a shield for their true agendas. It's very sad that they've been able to make it to positions of power where they can actually pursue their goals.

I know it's only Observer Status, but it is still much more than the other religious organizations of the world get. I'd just rather they all stay out of politics, regardless of their nation state status.

My main concern with Ratzinger is that he has apparently been the guiding force of the Vatican for many years now, the man behind the curtain if you will. At his direction, the Church has refocused its attentions and energies away from the social and economic justice issues and onto issues such as abortion, gay rights, contraception and married clergy. It seems that his actions show us what he feels is important, and I don't like what I see. Add to that his comments deriding leftist economic theories, and I become very concerned. I only hope that he can be contained somewhat, and that the Church at least stays focused on the economic justice for which it has been known.

And I guess it is now only appropriate to call him Pope Benedict? I'll have to remember that!