Defending the American Nun - Our Kind of People

I was all set to write a blog discussing conservative tendencies in American Catholicism, chiefly as they are expressed in lay persons' criticism of Women Religious (nuns). I wanted to explain what strikes me as a paradox, that those called to mercy seem more interested in echoing church doctrine in a spirit of blame than in the Holy Spirit. I wanted to do this to draw attention to the Christian notion that one should serve the Father and each other. This is what it is - I wanted to point out - to obey the commandments and to love one's neighbor as oneself. I thought I might invoke a central fact, that as Christ is in us, we should respect and serve each other, as brothers and sisters in Christ. I wanted to state, for the record, that it does not concern me what people write or believe as they explore their lives, except that I applaud them for it.

I wanted to say, if the Nuns of America are inclined one or another way, in their hearts, in word or deed, I say, God bless them.

I thought to point out that a church such as the one presided over by the American Catholic Bishops can ill afford to chastise anyone who is faithful to the Word, lest they appear as blind hypocrites. I thought it might be instructive to mention that the Church is losing respect and adherence, not because of the works/works of nuns, but because its certain elements of its leadership, and their supporters and media mouthpieces, are seemingly dedicated to remaining out-of-touch with the hearts of the people who do the living, working, praying, and dying in this great land of ours.

I wanted to thank the Lord for Pope Francis, who appears ill-disposed toward petty criticisms and fractious language. I thought to express a convening thought: that the Catholic faith is true by dint of the words and actions of Jesus Christ, that doctrine is intended to serve that notion, not dictate the occasions of the heart.

That the Mass was made for mankind, not mankind for the Mass.

Finally, I thought to state that I have no intention of respecting ill-considered words or behavior. That any Catholic who feels license to disrespect another for an act of conscience has missed the point entirely and would do well to re-read the Bible, cover to cover, and pray accordingly. In closing, I wanted to mention that I have never met a nun I didn't like, but that there are plenty of men out there who could use a course in manners and sense.

I thought I would do this. And then, I did.