[Kerberos]

"But the positive values that all civilizations have held in common are not outmoded."

No they are not. But then of course one has to decide which values are the positive values and which are the negative ones. And who gets to decide that?

It seems to be that the Pope is advocating the necessity of Christians becoming politically involved so that they get to be the ones who decides.

I have just always held the belief that ones spiritual development was not compatible with political life. Or to put it another way, be not involved in the things of man.

[Campion]

I have just always held the belief that ones spiritual development was not compatible with political life. Or to put it another way, be not involved in the things of man.

Christians are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, not imitation ostriches with their heads in the sand.

[SuenTsn]

It seems to be that the Pope is advocating the necessity of Christians becoming politically involved so that they get to be the ones who decides.

Thank you for your reply.

Well, there is much disagreement among Catholics themselves and among Christians who are non-Catholic. Just in reference to the death penalty, for instance, you will find people of faith on both sides of the question. I believe the Pope is against it, but Catholics can be found that are both pro- and con-.

I do think that many liberals have missed the boat by ignoring the fact that people are motivated by spiritual considerations. I'm sure there are rational arguments for much of what they advocate, but I've found that what beliefs people hold through faith motivate their actions far more than the rational arguments.

I think the Pope is asking people to frame the issues more in light of spiritual thought, and to not be afraid to admit that spirituality is very important in their lives. JMO, though.