More Letters...

Archbishop has wrong priorities
The Aug. 4 article on the temporary closing of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church was one of the most disturbing pieces I've read recently.

I am dumbfounded that Archbishop Raymond Burke places greater emphasis on the financial protocols of the archdiocese than on the importance of people coming together to worship God.

Although I am not a parishioner of St. Stanislaus, I recognize the value of the church and the role it plays in our community.

First, it is one of the remaining sanctuaries in north St. Louis. Second, it binds those of Polish decent closely to their traditions and beliefs, yet welcomes those of other nationalities to worship as well.

Most important, the people of St. Stanislaus have worked together to sustain the church through the years for the sole purpose of having a place to worship together, which is a testament to what faith can accomplish.

I'm struggling to comprehend how focusing on financial procedures ties in with the mission of Jesus and the Catholic Church. I think Archbishop Burke needs to re-evaluate his priorities and remove the obstacles he is establishing to prevent people from worshipping.

Berta Simic
Kirkwood

A lack of one's comprehension of the issue does not indicate that the Archbishop is incorrect. Archbishop Burke fully addressed the issue here.

And then we have this:

Using religion
I am insulted at the statement in the Aug. 4 article about President Bush visiting the Knights of Columbus Convention in Dallas that John Kerry "does better with less-observant Catholics."

I am Catholic, and consider myself "observant." However, I support Kerry for president. The reasons are many and are not really important. I go to Mass every week, I say my prayers just as well as any other Catholic.

Just because I believe in the separation of church and state does not mean I am "less-observant." I also do not believe in the death penalty, a fact that Bush conveniently has forgotten, I guess.

I am sickened at Bush's latest attempt to use whatever it takes - in this case religion - to divide our country.

Tamara Whitman
Collinsville

And as a matter of fact, "I'm more Catholic than the Pope!" Poor woman. She apparently believes in whatever happens to be convenient and easy - Following Christ requires sacrifice. It's more than making a weekly Sunday appearance at church. It means following the way of the Cross with all the hardships and struggles that go with it. It means abiding in God's truth. It means accepting all of the truth - even that which we may find difficult.

'It is clear that the Catholic voter has to be opposed to procured abortion. Anybody who votes for a candidate who supports or favors procured abortion because the candidate favors procured abortion cooperates in evil." (Archbishop Burke)

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