Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
May 30, 2001
Singles overlooked
May I add to the conversation about Elaine Holten's terrific letter in the April 18 Register regarding singles? My response is, "Amen, Elaine!" You are so right. This society has so much in place to help we married people grow together and learn relationship builders. But what about that vast army of single people (mostly women) who never get the chance to test their own strengths and talents as part of a couple? Certainly there are large numbers of singles who are content and happy and fulfilled and are absolutely not looking and not interested in being part of a couple. But she's right ... the Dr. Phil's who speak on Oprah so confidently about the unique perks of the unmarried life are themselves always happily married men. I say the new rule is that only cute, available heterosexual men get to talk to single women about the joys of being single. And, for those who may be interested, they have to leave their phone number.
Kathy McGovern
Denver
Capital punishment not God's law
Much has already been reported on the subject of the McVeigh matter and there is more that will be forthcoming in the days ahead.
In this nation we are led to believe that the foundation for all that we are and all that we have are attributable to the one almighty God, that we always must pay honor and respect to him, our creator.
The Bible is full of references on the sacredness of the human being; however, today we have the spectacle whereby the very same government officials, be they national or state, do not pay any attention to that which derives from the one almighty God. They only give lip service to him. For example, when they are sworn into their offices, they place their hands on the Bible and swear to uphold requirements of their office.
However, the same governmental officials are the ones who ... [support] capital punishment, clearly in complete disregard to what Christ had proclaimed. In fact, there are many Americans, who profess their Christianity, but their practice is in support of capital punishment. This is ... hypocrisy.
In making the argument in opposition to the death penalty, the following must be considered: "To no man render evil for evil, but provide good things not only in the sight of God, but also in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as far as in you lies, be at peace with all men. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to the wrath, for it is written, `Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" (Rom 12:17-19).
St. Paul tells us in Corinthians 3:16-17, "Do you know that you are the temple of the God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone destroys the temple of God, him will God destroy; for holy is the temple of God, and this temple you are."
In conclusion, I must ask, "If the human being is the temple of the Holy Spirit, how can anyone or any government sanction the killing of another human being under any circumstance?"
The sixth commandment, "Thou shalt not kill" applies to all, under all circumstances!
Albert Leon Maise
Northglenn
Donations help missions
I am profoundly grateful to Archbishop Charles Chaput and to the people of the Archdiocese of Denver for the most generous contribution in the year 2000 for the Church's work in more than 1,000 mission dioceses around the world.
The Society for the Propagation of the Faith is blessed by your diocesan gift of $206,162, as the Society of St. Peter Apostle is blessed by the offering of $1,215 for the support of mission vocations.
I am very aware that the work of mission animation and support depends greatly on the leadership of the bishops and their generosity in encouraging a vision of Church and a love for the Church's mission that extends beyond the parish and diocese. Particularly in light of the many needs to be fulfilled in dioceses here, the help from your people is a tremendous expression of their missionary spirit.
The spiritual and financial assistance generated through your encouragement and support sustains the Church's work in areas where the Church is poor, struggling and often persecuted and where the missionary task relies daily on the assistance of the older members of the Body of Christ.
I thank you for your prayerful support and especially for your help to further the work of the Propagation of the Faith on World Mission Sunday. Assuring you of my prayers for you and for your people, I am fraternally in the Lord,
Rev. John E. Kozar
National Director
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