As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we thank God for this country. We
thank all those people of faith, all the soldiers and all the conscientious
citizens who served our land over the last two centuries. We remember that
America was founded on the principle that all men are created equal and
have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Catholics have come a long way in the political spectrum. As a matter of
fact, we were not really accepted until the middle of the 20th century. Though
our country believed in freedom of religion, Catholics had to endure much
discrimination. Even in Maryland, named after the Mother of God and where most
Catholics settled, discrimination occurred when non Catholics held political
power. So, today politically we are in the mainstream. What, nevertheless,
remains is the need to treat us fairly across the boards. This means that the
entertainment and news media should not have a prejudice against us when it is
rightfully considered taboo to do so against any other faith. We know that the
Church, religious and practicing Catholics are often ridiculed or unfairly
judged in films and other venues. This is a good reason to support The
Catholic League for Civil Rights mentioned in another part of this bulletin.
So, equality must include Catholics as well.
This is the time we should especially recall the right of freedom to practice
religion which our forefathers so cherished. We must not be compelled to do
something that is against our conscience.
May you have a beautiful and safe 4th.
Father Stanley
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