Canadian Bishop's Pastoral Statement

Responses

Integrity Canada

Essentials Canada

I am still in the process of thinking about the bishop's statement. Of course, I don't think it goes far enough but maybe it is all we can get for now (not that I think we should settle for that).

One of the things that struck me was the statements that children should not be denied baptism because of the marital status of the parent/parents and that couples should not be denied marriage because they have been living together. Until a recent event, I hadn't realized that had been happening. To see it confirmed in the bishop's statement makes me realize how much further we have to go until we fully practice the way, the truth, and the life that is Jesus.

I really think that we need to take a good strong look at sexuality and marriage. We have made the institution of marriage the idol rather than looking at the reality that the marriage is. You want to have sex - get married! I get so frustrated with that attitude - marriage is not soley about sex. There is so much more. But that may be a topic for a different time.

The same thing is held true for the family institution. Not to mention that the child is not responsible for the parents decisions and actions.

I remain torn over a tension that in a number of ways this marks a step forward and yet in spite of that we are still so far.

Love and Prayers,
Ann Marie