Jeff Gatlain, a Catholic priest in KY, responds to bill donohue

[rpannier]

"As a Christian, a Catholic Priest, I stand in opposition to any and all hateful speech used by anyone, especially when they do so in the name of Jesus. I do not believe that one can claim to be a disciple of Jesus and at the same time deride, mock, insult, or threaten violence against another person. Mr. Donohue clearly makes hateful remarks as well as violent comments towards Mr. Cavallaro and as such he insults God, his fellow Catholics and humanity for that point.

Proclaiming the Salvation of Jesus means that we are to refrain from such vile speech. One cannot preach the love of
Jesus while cursing one's neighbor. The two cannot co-exist. To continually use hateful, crude, violent language is indicative of what dwells within one's heart. Mr. Donohue speaks only for himself and not the Catholic Church."

Would that quote be okay? I am a pretty low key person and I strive to be a force of unity and healing in the parishes I serve. I just do not want to become yet another screaming voice like Mr. Donohue.

link:
http://www.crooksandliars.com/2007/04/05/a-catholic-priest-stands-tall-against-bill-donohue/


on edit: Father Gatlain has a blog:
http://www.scripturejourney.blogspot.com/

[mentalsolstice]

1. As a conscientiously non-practicing Catholic...

Many (if not, most) of the priests and nuns that I've had a close relationship with, are by-and-large liberal, except for the abortion issue. And even then, they're usually very understanding and forgiving. Except for the pulpit (and even then, my favorites are very subtle), they don't try to ram religion down your throat. They simply try to answer the needs of their flock, and even those outside their flock when asked. By needs, I mean family crisis, illness, and so forth.

It's when you get to the hierarchy and official policy, then it gets really sticky. And there is also the sex scandal issues. That's where I get lost...

[Vidar]

6. Good analysis.

[Bake]

2. I applaud Rev. Gatlain!

He gets it. The Gospel, that is.

Bake

[TexasLawyer]

3. did anyone else see the "Hare Club for Men" episode of South Park?

For all his intolerance and hypocrisy, Bill Donohue gets a very nasty payback from Jesus himself.

An Easter CLASSIC!

[EstimatedProphet]

4. Good for him! Donohue does not speak for Catholics like he thinks he does!

[saltpoint]

5. Excellent statement.

At the next available opening, let's let Father Gatlain be the new Pope.