I don't keep up with politics from a political point of view.  But I get the sense that politics continues to dominate the news.  So, I want to continue to help you grapple with it and learn more about the foundation needed for good politics.

     If you think the elections are rigged (or not), then you might be challenged by Kennedy Hall's point of view in Universal Suffrage in an Age of Rigged Elections.  I think he raises more questions than answers.

     Larry Chapp offers his commentary in Catholics’ Primary Politics.  He's the husband of my seminary professor Carmina Chapp.  She gave me a present just before ordination:  a holy oil container that I keep on my keychain.  If someone faints after my homily, I use it to anoint the fainter.  The Chapps and a fellow seminarian, now Fr. John Gribowich, started the Dorothy Day Catholic Worker Farm.  In his commentary, Dr. Chapp addresses the topic of politics being treated like a religion.

     Regis Martin is one of the people I look to for wisdom.  He offers his own rather serious commentary in Abortion Is Our Red Wave.

     For something less political yet more important for our understanding of politics, I suggest reading Aaron Debusschere's essay, The Forgotten Virtue of Patriotism.  It will be the basis for my homily this weekend.  We all want justice which is about rendering unto another what is his due.  Religion, filial piety, and patriotism all connect to justice.  What do we owe God, our parents, and our country?

     Let's pray for one another's intentions.

1)  For an increase in the virtues of religion, filial piety, and patriotism.

2)  For healing for all those who are sick or injured.

3)  For those trapped in their homes due to the weather.

4)  For all of us to better recognize Jesus Christ as King of the Universe.

5)  For greater respect and understanding of God's divine plan for human love.

God love you,

Fr. Jim