Defend the Faith
Talking Points
In Times of Scandal
Many of you are being asked questions in your workplace, community and even your own family. In a time of crisis or scandal, we need your help more than ever so we can, together, create a place where common questions can be answered and shared with parishioners.
We’ve set up a place here on our website where there are resources. We’ve also set up a submission form where you can submit questions or comments. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER. We will monitor and update with answers to questions and other developments.
1. “We support the Church, we do not support bad behavior.”
The Church is the immaculate Bride of Christ and the Mystical Body of Christ, in the sense that the Sacraments are holy and there is no stain of error in Her teachings. We are grieved and angered when sinful individuals, and even leaders within the Church, are breaking the wise teachings of the Church. As Bishop Cotta shared with us, “…enough is enough!” We do not defend bad behavior. Ever.
2. “Don’t leave Jesus because of Judas.”
Jesus chose twelve men to be the first Bishops, even though he knew that some of them would betray Him. The Church has survived despite bad priests and bishops. We should not leave the Church. Instead, we should try to lead the Church. You can help lead by sharing your questions and concerns above.
3. “Since 2002 the Catholic Church has implemented strict safeguards to prevent abuse.”
Catholic parishes and institutions have developed “Safe Environment Protocols” which include reporting standards, fingerprinting and training of all church clergy, ministers and employees who work with children. These are so well-formulated that they are now being emulated by non-Catholic institutions. It is clear that, even though we at St. Joseph’s parish follow these protocols, it has not been done in all areas of the Church. This must change.
4. “This is the time to unite, not divide.” We will pray, as a Catholic family, and let the light of His Church shine, so that truth and just consequences can be achieved.
We’ve set up a place here on our website where there are resources. We’ve also set up a submission form where you can submit questions or comments. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER. We will monitor and update with answers to questions and other developments.
1. “We support the Church, we do not support bad behavior.”
The Church is the immaculate Bride of Christ and the Mystical Body of Christ, in the sense that the Sacraments are holy and there is no stain of error in Her teachings. We are grieved and angered when sinful individuals, and even leaders within the Church, are breaking the wise teachings of the Church. As Bishop Cotta shared with us, “…enough is enough!” We do not defend bad behavior. Ever.
2. “Don’t leave Jesus because of Judas.”
Jesus chose twelve men to be the first Bishops, even though he knew that some of them would betray Him. The Church has survived despite bad priests and bishops. We should not leave the Church. Instead, we should try to lead the Church. You can help lead by sharing your questions and concerns above.
3. “Since 2002 the Catholic Church has implemented strict safeguards to prevent abuse.”
Catholic parishes and institutions have developed “Safe Environment Protocols” which include reporting standards, fingerprinting and training of all church clergy, ministers and employees who work with children. These are so well-formulated that they are now being emulated by non-Catholic institutions. It is clear that, even though we at St. Joseph’s parish follow these protocols, it has not been done in all areas of the Church. This must change.
4. “This is the time to unite, not divide.” We will pray, as a Catholic family, and let the light of His Church shine, so that truth and just consequences can be achieved.
