How can anyone give any heed to the mutterings of some religious fanatic? The same self-serving articles of faith, as always, without contributing anything of value to the human condition.
Let me just give one part that bothered me. Paragraph 34:
In today’s world of instant communication and occasionally biased media coverage, the message we preach runs a greater risk of being distorted or reduced to some of its secondary aspects. In this way certain issues which are part of the Church’s moral teaching are taken out of the context which gives them their meaning.
To paraphrase:
We know God rails against contraception, hates condoms and we would forbid their use everywhere for all time. The world's distortion of this holy teaching by pointing to the slaughter of millions from AIDS as a direct consequence of this holy teaching is of no meaningful concern to us.
This Exhortation has nothing of value for the world.
Now, if he really wanted to do something, like maybe, just for jollies, actually follow the teachings and requirements of his supposed lord and savior then maybe the world would be moved to listen. Announce that the church will sell off all of its treasures and distribute the proceeds to the poor and needy around the world. Donate the archives to a consortium of universities. Turn Vatican City into a museum to the benefit of all the children's hospitals in Europe. Travel the world as a pauper from town to town on the small charities of others giving his homilies in the parks and on the street corners.
But he cannot do this. He cannot live by the words of his Jesus because he does not believe the words of his Jesus. Except for those that give him more money and power.
Evangelize, evangelize! Bring us more people who will tithe into our treasuries. Amen.
Edited by AZPaul3, : No reason given.
Edited by AZPaul3, : more change
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