tips, thank you for the words. I think it's great the discussion this action has triggered. We should never stop discussing what is good strategy for our movement.
That being said, as a lifelong Catholic and someone who considers myself an activist, I would have to say that this action was wholly appropriate, even if not consisting of a completely refined message (but what action does?). Easter is certainly the most holy day in the Catholic calendar and so it is all the more appropriate for people of conscience to stand up and speak the truth about the sinful nature of our occupation of Iraq. Since the Cardinal isn't talking about it, I am glad that somebody did. It is a betrayal of Christian values to celebrate the risen Christ by words alone while our tax dollars go into this murderous war machine. Jesus was the Prince of Peace and it is utter hypocrisy to jail people for demanding justice for the unheard voices of the Iraqi people in a church of all places! If we cannot call for peace in the house of peace, then where does that leave us? If anything, these six were celebrating the Easter holiday in one of the most appropriate ways possible.
Public opinion of the actions is another question, and I am glad that we are taking the time to analyze that. Does this make us a stronger movement? Does this make us a weaker movement? Will Catholics stop supporting the anti-war movement now? Will Catholics begin to question their place in the church? What ultimate effect does this action have? I think we should see, but I do not think that immediate reactions should be the ultimate indicator for a successful action.
Re: Re: TODAY: Vigil to End the War and Drop the Charges!
27 Mar 2008
Date Edited: 27 Mar 2008 09:49:52 AM
That being said, as a lifelong Catholic and someone who considers myself an activist, I would have to say that this action was wholly appropriate, even if not consisting of a completely refined message (but what action does?). Easter is certainly the most holy day in the Catholic calendar and so it is all the more appropriate for people of conscience to stand up and speak the truth about the sinful nature of our occupation of Iraq. Since the Cardinal isn't talking about it, I am glad that somebody did. It is a betrayal of Christian values to celebrate the risen Christ by words alone while our tax dollars go into this murderous war machine. Jesus was the Prince of Peace and it is utter hypocrisy to jail people for demanding justice for the unheard voices of the Iraqi people in a church of all places! If we cannot call for peace in the house of peace, then where does that leave us? If anything, these six were celebrating the Easter holiday in one of the most appropriate ways possible.
Public opinion of the actions is another question, and I am glad that we are taking the time to analyze that. Does this make us a stronger movement? Does this make us a weaker movement? Will Catholics stop supporting the anti-war movement now? Will Catholics begin to question their place in the church? What ultimate effect does this action have? I think we should see, but I do not think that immediate reactions should be the ultimate indicator for a successful action.