What would Jesus do?

A writer states in the Feb. 25 issue of The Catholic Spirit that the church should take power over religious sisters and Jesuits, who he defines as being heterodox, which means said groups do not conform with orthodox beliefs (“MCC director addresses questions about working with pro-choice politicians,” Feb. 25). Throughout history, both the Jesuits and nuns have been leaders in Catholic education at the university level. To name a few: St. Catherine University, Boston College, Georgetown, Gonzaga, Marquette, Creighton and the Loyolas, all of which have produced staunch Catholic leaders. Pope Francis, a Jesuit, is known for his strong tradition of practicing social justice. Traditional Catholic belief holds that the Pope is selected by the Holy Spirit. Catholic social teaching strongly advocates for social justice for all individuals. Each of its principles identifies marginalized groups that deserve dignity and respect. Jesuits and many orders of religious sisters are deeply involved in practicing the tenets of Catholic Social Teaching. I cite Sister Thea Bowman, the Berrigan brothers, Pedro Arrupe, Greg Boyle (founder of Homeboy Industries) and all the Jesuit martyrs. I ask: What would Jesus do? Would he work among the vulnerable as these men and women do? Or, would he turn away from the poor, the sinners and the lepers of the world? Would he extend a helping hand or sharp rebukes?

Terry Kolb Griep
St. Thomas More, St. Paul

Heterodox?

In a recent issue of The Catholic Spirit (“MCC director addresses questions about working with pro-choice politicians,” Feb. 25), a writer noted that the Church should take power over religious sisters and the Jesuits who he deems to be heterodox. I am a member of St. Thomas More community, a Jesuit parish. The parish is a sanctuary church (pro-life support for immigrants); has frequent homilies on social justice issues, the Beatitudes, and Matt. 25; has active involvement in social justice issues; beautiful and meaningful liturgies; and, is very welcoming. I volunteer at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, a college prep school serving students from families who would otherwise not be able to afford a private school. The school’s goal is not just having students graduate from high school but also from college. The largely Latino and Black student body has a record of 100% acceptance into colleges. This Jesuit ministry is replicated in over 30 schools across the United States. If the examples cited are heterodoxy, then this is the Church of which I wish to be a part.

Mariah Snyder
St. Thomas More, St. Paul

Biden support

Praise the Lord! We have in the White House a man who believes in God, honors his faith not only by attending church but also in his family life and service to his country. Like Pope Francis, he is concerned for our planet and cares for refugees. In contrast, some bishops inappropriately focus on one issue only and ignore suppression of voting and failure to provide for the common good by making vaccinations available to all. Let’s stop casting the first stone.

Mary E. Sarazin
St. Edward, Bloomington

Ineffective police contract

The subject article in the March 25 Catholic Spirit said it all regarding the fear and anxiety on the street in the Twin Cities (“Chauvin trial reaction: Praying for the best, preparing for the worst”). This need not be, however, as this incident is not directly about racism. This is about an officer’s abilities which were apparently called into question on multiple occasions. There is nothing wrong with the MPD that the mayor and City Council haven’t condoned for years by repeatedly signing off on the city operating contract with the Police Federation. That contract, according to published reports and study, directs most issues to arbitration, which does nothing for the city and does absolutely nothing for officers who have real issues that need to be addressed. That contract is apparently so ineffective that Chief Arradondo has “pulled out” of the contract, which means nothing because the contract remains in force into perpetuity until it is replaced. It’s long past time for the mayor and City Council to admit their part and commence immediate negotiations toward a new contract. If not now, when? Further protests would better be directed to that aim. Nothing else will repair the city and effect a fitting accomplishment in the memory of George Floyd and others.

Art Thell
St. Joseph, West St. Paul

Men and caves

In your March 26 (online) article, titled “Seminary professor discusses St. Joseph as a spiritual father,” Deborah Savage notes that “If it weren’t for men, we’d still be living in caves.” Really? Unbelievable. It’s astonishing that our young priests are being formed by teachings such as this. All of us were created in the image of God and are essential to the evolution of a caring and just world. Step into the current century, Ms. Savage. I lose hope for our dear Church when I read commentaries like this. Please, by the grace of God, do better.

Betty Schindler
Lumen Christi, St. Paul