The Pope and American Politics

The Pope isn't coming to Southern California as far as I know. Therefore, I'm not going to have an opportunity to sit down with him and talk about issues of mutual interest. But, like many Americans, Catholic and non-Catholic, I'm waiting to see what he has to say -- especially on issues with political and ecumenical impact. We know his views on abortion and gay marriage, views that resonate with parts of the GOP platform. But Benedict's views are more complex than this. He's also a vocal critic of the war in Iraq and the use of torture. His economic views are closer to the Democrats as well. So, while his speeches could have political impact, it won't be a monolithic impact. Both parties will likely have something to take away, which means that Catholics will have to decide which of their church's social teachings are primary at this moment in time.
For more on this check out this article from today's LA Times.

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