We the God's People

A few weeks ago Archbishop Timothy Doaln, Bishop of New York, communicated with members of Congress concerning priorities of the new Congress. Dolan recommended that, "This newly elected Congress will advance the common good and defend the life and dignity of all, especially vulnerable and poor persons whose needs are critical."

Dolan emphasized the needs of people during difficult economic times and how such struggles affect the basic dignity and well being of men and women. Archbishop Dolan commented on the need of our nation to respect all life, from conception until death. At one point Dolan writes, "We hope that the days ahead will be a time of renewal and progress for our nation as we defend human life and dignity, seek greater justice for all God's children and bring peace to a suffering world."

It is good when our Bishops act like teachers. The prophets of old would often stand before the religious and political leaders of the day to challenge them to live according to the Covenant. While we like to proclaim a separation between Church and state, the reality is that Congress does take part in being the keepers of the Covenant. The Bishops, as shepherds and teachers, also have a role to invite all of us to live as Children of God.

With that said it would good for us to muse that if we are to be a great nation, our greatness should not simply be limited by military or economic strength, but our moral lifestyle. When violence is so commonplace that we hardly flinch at the reports of shootings or abuse, then we have a problem. Archbishop Dolan is challenging leaders to be be true to their leadership role, in advancing our national vision along the lines of justice and peace.

While some might contend that the Church has no business stepping into the political arena, what Dolan alludes to here are human issues which have moral implications. Anytime of actions or responses affect human life and dignity, it becomes an issue of morality. It is good to keep the values and virtues of our faith in the forefront to be made known and reflected upon.

As a Church we should not be afraid to contact of legislators. But we also need to pray for them. We ask God to spill wisdom, knowledge, and right-judgement upon all who make and enact laws. The ideal of the common good is an understanding that should be foundational.

In closing Dolan thanks the members of Congress who serve nobly in public office. He urges cooperation with each other for the people they serve, and an understanding of the needs of all men and women. Dolan invites them to stand above the pettiness that distracts good men and women, and to act according to what is right and good.