[firebrand]

A friend is considering leaving the Church over this.

[Mrs. Don-o]

Catholics need to keep in mind that --- as I teach my RCIA students ---there is a big difference between an apostolic hierarchy and a clerical bureaucracy. Kevin Appleby, USCCB staffer, does not have any canonical authority to make a binding ruling on Catholics regarding temporal public policy options, and neither do the Bishops, whether individually or in conference.

They are using an "aura" of hierarchical authority, and a babble of godly-sounding soundbites, to push something which is not in their sphere. This is a perfect example of illegitimate clericalism. The only positive aspect of it is that most Catholics have long since ceased to listen to the USCCB apparat.

Incidentally, I am very circumspect in my church-related charitable giving. I don't give a dime to anything that goes to the USCCB. My little almsgiving consists in paying for supplies for our RCIA program out of my own pocket: because as member of the parish RCIA team, I know for sure that what's taught is straight undiluted Catholicism, no if's, and's or but's.