it means everything to a converted Catholic.
many American Catholics are 2nd and 3rd generation - "cradle Catholics.". They are also cradle Democrats, of the old school, who vote that way because that's the way they always have. They are also (often) cradle union members or supporters - already very well organized. That's why when Uncle Teddy says, "this is the one", it was certain to be a reality.
People also fail to realize that Catholics were brutally oppressed in the US a century and a half ago, and learned to pull together as a matter of survival. Foe better or worse, that's the way it was.
I would add that the Catholic church is probably the largest and most effective charitable organization on the planet. The influence of the Church in education and healthcare is simply incalculable. Catholics put their feet to the street to help the needy and "disadvantaged". (it is therefore NOT a slam-dunk that Catholics would recognize the dangers of socialized medicine, because an age old debate is the obligation of a society to care for its needy. Nonetheless, some do see those dangers). It's impossible to do that in this world and remain completely free of government entanglement -- esp when the nature of government is to encroach, usurp, and dictate. The Charitable works of the Church have been indispensable and are surely among the greatest unsung heroics in Americas social history.
Now, however, as the reach of government is extending more than ever, the game changing. It takes time for people to recognize that. Some will not want to be free of the states alleged support. Some will accept it. It could get very ugly, even heartbreaking - and I certainly expect it to simply because that seems to be the way the narrow road always leads.
The gates of hades will not prevail against the Church, but also, the Church will be sifted. As for Ametica, well, that's up to us.
I was thinking more of abortion.
“the Catholic church is probably the largest and most effective charitable organization on the planet.”
I happened to catch last week on TV the convention of the Knights of Columbus with a speech by their head, reviewing their past years accomplishments. WOW. Very impressive. He just went on and on for two hours, describing one program after another. And it was tied in with a patriotic theme. I would presume they are a more conservative group among the Catholics?