Dartblog

Despite the dreary weather in Hanover today, my spirits are light. Indeed, I imagine they are far lighter than those of Mrs. Clinton today. One of her upcoming campaign stops will be at St. Mary’s University, a Catholic college in southern Texas. This event has already sparked controversy due to the pro-life stance of the Catholic Church.

San Antonio Archbishop Jose H. Gomez responded to the rally with concerns. “It is clear that the records of Senator Clinton and some of the other candidates for President on important life issues are not consistent with the teaching of the Catholic Church,” Gomez said.

“Our Catholic institutions must promote the clear understanding of our deep moral convictions on an issue like abortion, an act that the Church calls ‘an unspeakable crime’ and a non negotiable issue.”

This isn’t the first time that Catholics have raised concerns about liberal social stances. In 2004, Colorado Springs Bishop Michael Sheridan wrote to his parishioners that “any Catholic politicians who advocate for abortion, for illicit stem-cell research or for any forms of euthanasia ipso facto place themselves outside full communion with the Church and so jeopardize their salvation.” This stance was echoed by bishops across the country, and stirred additional controversy because John Kerry, a Catholic, won the nomination of the Democratic Primary.

While evangelicals vote largely Republican, Catholics are targeted by both parties due to their moderate views. I doubt that the Church will ever be able to completely steer voters, but their efforts are certainly appreciated. Here in Hanover, the Catholic Student Center even provided literature before the primaries which advocated voting for a culture of life, without naming particular candidates.

Clinton must ask voters to ignore the Church in favor of her candidacy, a large request indeed. A rally at a Catholic college can never make up for the fact that some of the beliefs of the Democratic Party fundamentally oppose the doctrines of the Catholic Church. It is for that, dear friends, that my spirits are light, anticipating the effect that the Catholic Church could have on the election.