Arpad Nagy's blog

Mgr. Francis Leo, in his open letter to all members of our federal parliament, exhorted them to vote in favour of a bill that would put additional restrictions on sexually explicit materials (pornography) in order to protect minors. This open letter on Bill S-210 is not inconsequential. This can provide a framework on how churches can not only coexist with our current political system but influence it as well.

To read Mgr. Leo's letter, click here.

In this situation, a high prelate of the Catholic Church has voiced his opinion on public policy. He brought his opinion, informed by the teaching of the Catholic Church, and made it clear for all to see in society, and specifically addressing the decision makers of our land. He voiced his opinion on a bill that is going through the House of Commons—and in fact, not only did he share his thoughts, but he clearly endorsed the bill.

In his open letter, there are certain things that Mgr. Leo did do and things that he did not do:

• he did not address the members of a single political party;
• he did not tell people whom to vote for;
• he did not endorse a political party or candidate;
• but he did address an issue that is within his competence;
• he did speak out to protect the welfare of those under his spiritual care;
• he did speak out in order to promote the common good in society;
• He did endorse a specific piece of legislation that relates to the Church’s teachings.

When so many priests and pastors shy away from addressing moral issues in public, including often even from within the walls of their own churches, hearing about such a public witness is highly encouraging. Thank you Mgr. Leo!

Public policy is of concern to us all, and any leader who outright encourages his flock or his followers to detach themselves from, to ignore, to boycott, or to be silent on issues of morality in society is doing a great disservice to their community, to their faith tradition and to God.

On a legal side note, it is important to know that charities, including churches (and individuals representing such entities) must remain non-partisan, and must speak out on topics that advance the organization’s purposes. This was done by Mgr. Leo in his open letter. For those who want to better inform themselves on churches being political, I encourage you to read chapter 11 (starting on page 41) of the Acacia Group booklet found here. (Acacia group is a law firm serving churches, based in Ontario).

The restrictions to organizations do not apply to individual members of said organization when representing themselves. As such, it is important for Christian individuals to assert their voice for what is morally right and for what advances the common good in society. As Christian individuals, we must be politically minded, and we can also be partisan. (For a Catholic guide on voting, click here.)

One thing I do want to acknowledge is that asserting one’s voice is not always evident. What I mean is that doing what is right is not without consequences. Modern society has become very good at persecuting the righteous, cancelling those who speak out, at intimidating and pressuring everyone to accept their distorted reality. Doing what is right is seldom easy. Speaking out can often have consequences. But doing and saying what is good, right and true will always be the moral alternative.

It is my opinion that the greatest reason to assert our voice in the public sphere is due to Christian charity. All citizens suffer from the immoral decisions of our elected officials. Christian charity must thus include consideration for our neighbours who do not have the faith needed to face times of tribulation. Wouldn’t our words bring them light, hope and faith? Wouldn’t our resolve for justice give glory to God for all to see? Christian charity is lived out in actions (as the Church does so well), but it must also be lived out in our words.

In the pro-life movement, we would do a great injustice if we were to disconnect our words from our actions. We need to continue both helping women in need and advocating for the multitude of lives lost yearly in Canada due to abortion. Actions and words are both necessary and will be blessed when done in a spirit of prayer. 

We hope that Christian individuals take up the fight for life. We also hope that churches also assert themselves within the framework of Canadian law. We invite all of you to join in this critical fight for Life.