Courage on Good Friday

As we reflect on the passion of Jesus this sacred day, I thought I would bring you some good news - it is Good Friday after all. As I digress a bit from the readings, I want to share some recent information about our courageous Archbishop John Vlazny. We priests have received a statement from the Archbishop, a sort of call to action if you will, in regards to the increased unfair and unbalanced reports in the secular press, particularly the newspapers, on the recent developments in the tragic sex abuse scandals. Now, it seems to be Europe's turn and, as expected, there are attempts to tag this right on the person of Pope Benedict. No one is claiming innocence where guilt is present any more. It's clear you can't run and hide on this issue. That is a good thing. A very good thing. So much depends on getting this right but a great deal does depend on the truth. Today, in our passion from John's Gospel, Jesus states, "Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice . . ."
The sarcastic response of Pilate is telling, "What is the truth?" (John 18). That strikes me as the question of this age and the struggle in regards to this entire scandal that afflicts society, not just the Church - What is the truth and how will that truth be presented?

In regards to the Archbishop, look for the full text of his letter in this week's bulletin. It's not the best Easter message, I suppose, but it is very timely.

In essence the Archbishop decries the "Catholic bashing" in Oregon's main newspaper, The Oregonian then adds, "I was always suspicious that there was more behind all the attention given to our plight by the secular media." He goes on to be very specific and fair in his complaint and then speaks of the "last straw" in regards to the "unconscionable cartoon . . . which unfairly belittled our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. It was a portrayal dripping with hostility, an attack against our universal pastor,. . . the one person in the world who, in the eyes of the world, symbolizes all that we are and do as Catholics . . ." I cannot help but remember the quote, "Strike the Shepherd and the sheep will scatter."

The rest of the Archbishop's letter goes on to list other grievances, in particular the arrogant way in which the paper connects, "the practice of celibacy among our clergy with the problem of child sexual abuse, when everyone knows that most abusers by far are married persons . . ." More follows.

I have to say, this is an uncharacteristic but most sincere statement from a man who has proven over his years with us to be even tempered, faith-filled, courageous, compassionate and understanding. The man, nor the Church,nor any faithful priests, nor any Catholic in the pew does not deserve such agenda driven attacks. But, it is Good Friday.

What's the call to action I mentioned earlier? Cancel your subscription to The Oregonian if you have one. Though the Archbishop cannot nor is he requiring anyone to do this, he has done so himself and urges others to do the same. That action may be more symbolic than ultimately effective but money talks, unfortunately. Consistent bad press and a negative audience cannot be sustained indefinitely without making some difference.

So, there is the truth. A blessed Good Friday to all and let us ramp up our prayers for our Holy Father, our shepherds, priests, and for all well intentioned Catholic people. As Pastor of Queen of Peace, I cannot thank you enough for all your support and prayers that I know have sustained me. My promise of love and prayers in return. This is indeed a Good Friday.