This is excessive use of force. And for what practical purpose? How was the peace or civility of the community threatened by a priest praying on the sidewalk.
The police may have been a “lawful order” but it was not a moral one. I wish at least one officer had refused to participate in a public way. He would have the support of me.
nufsed
Here's what I emailed Notre Dame's director of security:
I feel compelled to email you a note of congratulations after showing that 80 year old priest, Father Weslin, who's really in chargeat Notre Dame.
Bravo! We need more folks such as you who can steel your resolve in the face of such moral challenges.
When your child asks you "How was work today, dad?", did you reply "I ordered an 80 year old priest arrested, son. Just doing my job, you know."
One wonders whether your historical brethren, say those in a far away Teutonic land of 65 years ago, answered the same question with "I arrested some Jews today, son. Just doing my job, you know."
Sleep well, knowing you've made the world a safer and better place through your efforts. Certainly, your actions here will be looked back as a highlight of your lifetime's work when you throw off your mortal coil and stand at God's threshold.
Protect and Serve, indeed!
I doubt I'll get a reply.