[MadeInOhio]

You've asked a good question.

My response is twofold.

A) The bishops have, in large measure, ceased being shepherds for Christ and prophetic voices enunciating Biblical truth. They have lost their fear of God and replaced it with fear of man.

B) The fear may have an economic basis as well as a simple human desire not to be defamed for standing for the right.
Some years ago I recall a Catholic pro-abort congressman, a New York Democrat, responding to an interviewer who asked what would be his reaction should the church excommunicate him over his stance.

The congressman replied something to the effect that then perhaps the time will have come to re-examine the Catholic Church's tax-exempt status.

Translation: Fine, prelate. You want to put the screws to me and cost me votes with Catholic constituents by putting me outside the Roman Catholic community? Well, let's see how long you can operate a diocesan budget with a secular adjustment of the tax code.

[victim soul]

All the hospitals and schools etc etc that The Church set up weren't based on the thought of tax deductions but on the needs of all people based on true charity and Jesus' teachings.

Let them revoke the exemptions and see how many people will be willing to pick up that "slack" in further tax increases.

[TYVets]

Re: Post #40

"The congressman replied something to the effect that then perhaps the time will have come to re-examine the Catholic Church's tax-exempt status. "

The question of the Bishop's Backbone or lack there of, is answered in your post!

[RobbyS]

Translation: Fine, prelate. You want to put the screws to me and cost me votes with Catholic constituents by putting me outside the Roman Catholic community? Well, let's see how long you can operate a diocesan budget with a secular adjustment of the tax code. I think you may have something, and the threat is effective not only against the Church but against Protestant prelates such as Mr. Falwell. BUT I say: OK do it. Then it will be clear to Catholics and other Christians that a Kulturekampf is underway. It will be clear who the enemy is. How many politicians have the guts to risk the establishment of a Christian political party? Pols are not famous for courage.