Is The Pope Dead Yet?

[Lisa Denton]

I didn't find the original post too bad, some of the others were in bad taste. A man has died, whether you hold him responsible for everything you dislike about the catholic religious institution or not, it is common courtesy and respect not to voice it on the day of his death, as if his death is a good thing, that is in bad taste.

 

[carsonshepherd]

Quote from John Paul II, on the front page of my local paper.

"Nothing is resolved by war. On the contrary, everything is placed in jeopardy by war."

Being a pacifist/CO, I respected his powerful voice on the side of peace.

 

[Pure]

Good points Angela,

There is strength of character. There are the 'anticommunist', pro Polish efforts.

But in two areas, the health of the church and of the world, it seems pretty dubious.

The followers seem energized and inspired; I've seen interviews at the International Youth Day. They are inspired, yet fuck and take the pill just like other persons, i.e, ignore the Church.

The problem of sexual abuse by priests was not dealth with, and the Vatican refused the suggestion of American bishops, to de frock abusers, automatically.

Priests and nuns continue to leave in droves.

He spoke to Jewish and Muslim leaders, but did not contribute to ecumenical or interfaith movements (since Catholicism is THE 'true' religion, despite the attempts of Vatican II, to soften this stance.)

In the world, there is war, famine and plague. Taking the latter, it's pretty well known that the Church has opposed efforts in Africa to distribute condoms and educate in any way about AIDS, other than saying 'abstain' or 'be monogamous.'

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All in all, besides inspiring followers in the Church, he showed courage in making some contribution to the 'fall' of communism.