Your Voice

God Bless Those on the Front Lines

In the December/January issue of St. Anthony Messenger, Rita E. Piro’s article on the healthcare workers in New York City (“Health-Care Heroes: New York City Nurses”) was especially impactful. I am in awe of the bravery and resilience of those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the country, so many doctors, nurses, and others in health care work tirelessly to save lives, despite the real danger of contracting the virus.

Along with the harrowing stories of the two nurses in the article, I also enjoyed reading about Sister Preenika Dabrera, CSJ, who works as a pastoral care minister. It’s so important to minister to those facing health crises, and it speaks to our faith to treat not only the bodies but the souls of patients. Jean Campbell, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Morality and Politics

I’m writing in response to the letter by Michael Martin that appeared in the December/January issue of St. Anthony Messenger (“Politics an Unwelcome Addition”), which advocates separating the Catholic faith from politics.

Jesus was a political figure when he, as a Jew, preached the heavenly kingdom circa 27–37. He was not politically acceptable to the ruling Roman Empire and its local governor, Pontius Pilate.

If any voting group happens to be led by a person who, in his or her official capacity, uses lies or personal vindictiveness to achieve political goals in the name of the electorate, I believe the Catholic leadership has a moral responsibility to speak factual truth to that political voice or force. To be silent indirectly confirms the Church’s approval of that immoral behavior. The Church need not judge the person, but rather the behavior or overt political action(s).

Catholic comment need not be political in the sense of “red” versus “blue.” However, I believe we should speak up for morality in politics, as in every other criteria of life. James Beck Sr., Sarasota, Florida

November Issue Inclusive

I’m writing in regard to the November issue of St. Anthony Messenger. Congratulations! This issue was addressed to everyone, and it stands on its merits. Well done! Art Thell, St. Paul, Minnesota

Stories Worth Sharing

In the November issue of your informative and very interesting magazine, there are many articles that prompted me to write to let you know how much I enjoy St. Anthony Messenger.

Upon receiving my copy of the magazine, I usually read it from the beginning to the end. When I am finished, I pass it on to my daughter, then to a friend who lives in a convalescent home. They look forward to each issue as much as I enjoy sharing it. Keep up the great work! Linda Bettencourt, New London, Connecticut

A Wake-Up Call

I’d like to offer a hearty “amen” to Patrick Carolan’s October I’d Like to Say column, titled “Don’t Be a Single-Issue Voter.” Many Catholics/Christians vote for candidates who claim (often falsely) to be “against abortion.” Before we citizens cast our votes in future elections, we should read Matthew 7:15–16: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?” Greg Mauz, Christoval, Texas

Joy and Courage in Your Pages

St. Anthony Messenger is a joy to read each month. Three recent columns have had particular resonance for me. Patrick Carolan’s “COVID-19 Can Lead Us to a Better World” in the September issue was enlightening and refreshing. Indeed, we should throw away the theology of substitutionary atonement. As one who deals with anxiety, I found Susan Hines-Brigger’s “A Tale of Chronic Anxiety,” also in the September issue, to be very brave and helpful.

I’m sure that many readers, myself included, were able to relate to Kyle Kramer’s At Home on Earth column in November (“Battling the Darkness”). What a courageous piece! To his excellent poetry suggestions, I would add Wendell Berry’s “To Know the Dark.” Thank you! Joan R. Halpin, Madison, Wisconsin

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