Reply #214: well if you look at the actions by leftist clergy [View All]

[imenja]

and groups of gay clergy in particular, the Holy See has not heeded
their advice either. Do you think he is going to value the opinions of a lapsed Catholic, a woman, who rarely attends mass more than those in the priesthood? The fact is the Catholic Church is a rigid hierarchy, not a democracy. I imagine that concept is difficult for many to understand, but it is the case. The Pope depends on his communion with the Holy Spirit to bring about any change in Church doctrine, which is then transmitted downward.

Moreover, in my view the primary problem is not Church doctrine but public policy. I think it is far more effective to devote energy toward the political arena, where change is possible. We can lobby congress and when Catholic clergy intervene in ways that restrict human rights, we can and should contact them. Imagining we will alter Church doctrine, however, is fantasy.

I may write Pope Benedict XVI, but if I do so from my own perspective.
I also know that if the letter is to be at all persuasive, I will need to spend time developing a doctrinal basis for my positions.
If you want to voice your own concerns, you'll need to do that yourself.