I agree Mark. As human beings with our finite knowledge and understanding we cannot judge the actions and beliefs of others. Only God in His infinite wisdom can do that.

There were many things I did when I was an "annual Catholic" [Christmas Eve Vigil Mass] that I regret and confessed but simply didn't fully understand the degree of sinfullness of the way I lived.

I hope and pray that God has a "soft spot" for teenagers and young adults.
jerry | 11.26.03 - 1:50 pm | #

I'm not sure who you are referring to with respect to being judged. For an individual woman who undergoes an abortion? I can agree - we do not know what she has (or is) going through, therefore cannot adequately judge. But a politician who publicly, consistently and loudly procalims the glories and benefits of "choice" for crass political gain? Particularly in complete defiance of the clear teaching of the Church they "profess" to be a part of, and take "photo-ops" with during every election cycle? I won't be their final judge, may God have mercy on them, but I won't be blind to their "fruits" either.
c matt | 11.26.03 - 2:15 pm | #

Roger that, c matt
JCL | 11.26.03 - 2:22 pm | #

There's a wonderful story that is attributed to Msgr. William Smith of Dunwoodie [NY archdiocesan seminary] that the bishops of the province of NY went to Rome on their ad limina visit several years ago, to report to the Holy Father all that had gone on in their respective dioceses the previous five years. In addition to meeting with the bishops individually, the Pope also has a simple lunch with the group of bishops, and the table talk tends to be quite interesting, with the Holy Father presiding as pater familias et magister. The lunch topic with this NY group turns to the sexual mores of the US, and the moral status of many young American Catholics in light of the increasing abortions, children born out of wedlock, pre-marital sex, etc. One bishop states that he does not believe that most young people are in a state of mortal sin, because "they do not understand either the seriousness of their actions, nor do they understand these acts as sinful at all," so they avoid the impu
Fr. Brian Stanley | Homepage | 11.26.03 - 2:34 pm | #

Sorry... imputation of mortal sin. There is general agreement among the bishops. Then the Holy Father speaks, stating agreement about the young people avoiding mortal sin, then adding, "The mortal sin falls upon the bishops and priests who have failed to teach and preach what the Church teaches on sexuality." The rest of the meal is eaten in silence, so the story goes.

I don't know whether this story is true or not. I hope it is true.
Fr. Brian Stanley | Homepage | 11.26.03 - 2:36 pm | #

Cmatt:

I was in NO WAY suggesting that we do not criticize pro-abort politicians, activists, etc. I continue to be puzzled at the defeaning silence of bishops who buddy up with these politicians. I was simply agreeing with Mark that God is not going to ask for my input when it comes time for eternal judgment of these pro-abort people.

Fr. Brian: That's pretty much what I was getting at but I ran out of time ... lunch.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
jerry | 11.26.03 - 5:28 pm | #