Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
October 24, 2001
Letters
Peace movement
Since the occurrence of the national tragedy on Sept. 11, the Holy Father, the bishops, and priests in many churches have begun to focus on peace instead of war, on justice instead of vengeance, on the politics of war, and even on forgiveness. These sermons will not make us popular with many of our more conservative brothers and sisters, but this is truly the teaching of Jesus.
Once more the Church will find itself at odds with other Christians. I welcome the challenge. Catholicism should once again take a leading role in the peace movement and be willing to ruffle a few feathers. It will be good to see the Church as Church was meant to be: The healing voice of reason in a wounded, angry world. I think it's about time.
Richard de Olivas y Cordova
Denver
Evil of abortion
The mass murder by a bunch of 7th-century lunatics on Sept. 11 is evil beyond belief. Most rational people can understand that. But the sacrificing of children in the name of "women's rights" is just as evil, and the sooner it is recognized the better.
Don Fahrenkrug
Colorado Springs
Gibran's roots
In a recent letter by a Madeleine Turgeon Fiorino she incorrectly identified Kahlil Gibran as being a Muslim. In fact, from all my sources he was born to parents who were Maronites, which is part of the Catholic Church and is in communion with Rome. Additionally, he was buried in the grotto of the Monastery of Mar Sarkis which was his childhood church. (See Preface to "Spirits Rebellious," 1947, The Philosophical Library, Inc.) I do agree with her observation that it is a great book. I think it is important to correctly understand his background, without distracting from her valid point that the Muslim faith is meant to be one of peace and love.
Tom Siller
Fort Collins
Heart bravery
It is a time for action. The risk of continued attacks against our people, institutions and traditions is real and immense. We must act bravely. In our enthusiasm to act, however, I personally believe we must not discount the courage and effectiveness of Christ's love or "soul-force" as Gandhi termed it. To do so is to dismiss the great accomplishments of Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Cesar Chavez, among many others.
Without lessening the heroism of those risking their lives in battle at this moment, I would assert that non-violent struggle is a legitimate alternative to military action for the brave of heart.
We have witnessed the great sacrifice of our firefighters and police. Now we see thousands of Americans in uniform ready to offer the ultimate price for our freedom. Can we stand by without offering our own sacrifice? Just as this war is different from previous wars, I would argue that the sacrifices necessary here are different from previous offerings. We are called to sacrifice not only for our country but for the world. Our fight against terrorism must also target the degrading poverty rampant across the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. We must show the peoples of the world that we are not indifferent to their suffering. Inspirational world leadership is demanded of us. We may not be able to solve all the world's agonies but we can offer signs of solidarity and support, especially with our own sacrifices. We can inspire a vision not only of freedom but also of compassion and service, of a common humanity.
It is a time for each of us to be and do our very best.
Rick Travers
Vail
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