The statement that Bendall objects to is certainly not a ringing endorsement of the movie. However, the latter part actually acknowledges that some positive things have resulted from Gibson's work. It is not so much a condemnation of the film as it is the usual weak-kneed, politically correct type of platitude which emanates from these men.
In the spectrum of malfeasance committed by the US hierarchy, this is relatively minor. I'm sure Bendall enjoyed the film and all but the bishops' statement doesn't actually undermine anyone's faith, which is more than can be said for a lot of their work.
Moreover, Bendall's language is so intemperate that it seems that all out war has been declared between the US hierarchy and RCF. If it wasn't already declared, it is now. The language is of a nature which I have seldom read in a letter to the US bishops and is the literary equivalent of a kick in gonads.
I'm sure Bendall feels better for venting but this uncivil offering will achieve little.
I must agree the language seems intemperate. But it was long overdue. Somebody has to challenge these so-called "spiritual shepherds" who are in the business of destroying the faith while pretending to do just the opposite. Jesus, after all, knew whited sepulchres and hypocrites when he saw them and used the same kind of over-the-top language when he had finally had enough.
The Church and the faithful both sacrifice too much truth in the name of civility.
Frank and open commentary is a welcome relief from the usual "Bishop-ese" which means little and accomplishes less.
I am acquainted with a US Bishop who has openly (but not publicly) referred to a local priest as a "snake." So happens it is a true statement.
Truth is good.
I like it.
Beats the heck out of weak feminist spanking. Step aside.
It's the kind of rhetoric that actually harms the traditionalist movement. It's no wonder that most bishops are compelled to keep traditionalists at arms length. The style alone reveals a malice that cannot be attributed to even a shadow of authentic Catholicism.