Regarding “US Catholic bishops OK steps toward possible rebuke of Biden” (June 18): The U.S Conference of Catholic Bishops will ignore the Pope’s request not to issue the declaration that would rebuke politicians for receiving Communion despite their support for abortion rights. . Pray tell, what happened to the institutional Catholic Church doctrine that the Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church who is deserving of obedience by all bishops?
Bishop Kevin Rhoades of the Fort Wayne-South Bend diocese in Indiana and chairman of the Conference’s doctrine committee, takes the doctrinal cake when he says, “We need to accept the church’s discipline that those who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin are not to be admitted to Holy Communion.”
Is this bishop saying those who believe abortion is a decision solely between a woman and her God, and that government should have no place in that decision, are “persisting in manifest grave sin” merely from that belief? So now, mere “beliefs” rather than actions are grave sins?
But more importantly, doesn’t this mean that all Catholic priests, bishops, cardinals and popes who either committed sexual abuse of minors, ignored or protected the abusers will no longer be able to receive the Eucharist let alone preside over the Eucharist celebration of mass, or for that matter any of the other six sacraments?
Lawrence J. Madigan, Houston
In the United States, we give religions certain benefits that are not available to other organizations. So if the Catholic bishops wish to engage in political manipulation, that is their right, but in doing so they move away from the status of a church to that of a mere organization, free to engage in extortion at any (legal) level that they choose, and free to pay taxes on income, and on their property.
William Spindler, Houston
Miserable summers
Regarding “Try growing up in Pasadena without air-conditioning,” (June 18): One purpose of each generation is to attempt to create a way of life for subsequent generations that might be filled with opportunities for growth, health and happiness. When my parents moved to Houston in 1952, they lived in a tiny, cinder-block house in Jacinto City. Casement windows and no AC, just an attic fan that served to sweep in warm, humid air laced with the pungent fragrance of a ship channel area pulp mill. They managed the best they could, grateful for a home of their own. All the while, they worked to give me the chance for an education that might propel me into a brick home with central AC in a neighborhood that perhaps smelled of gardenias and honeysuckle. Sympathy for and a small step away from those miserable summers. No guarantee; just a goal. And delight if the goal was realized.
Carol Godell, Spring
Animal cruelty
Regarding “Gov. Abbott vetoes bipartisan anti dog-chain bill. Twitter responds with #AbbottHatesDogs.” (June 21): Gov. Abbott has now taken his political selfish veto powers to new levels — he’s vetoed SB474 — the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act, a bill that would provide clearer definition of adequate shelter for dogs and prohibit the use of heavy chains. This bill was bipartisan, had more than 100 cosponsors, and was strongly endorsed by law enforcement — so they could act when they encountered a dog chained with no access to food, water, or shelter in subzero temps or 100-degree temps with no shade.
This bill was the result of six years of hard work and compromise by political parties, law enforcement, animal services and dozens of animal rescue agencies. Overwhelmingly the House and Senate passed this bill — only to have Abbott veto it with the strike of his pen. Now Abbott alone has guaranteed that dogs across Texas will continue to suffer miserably — simply so Abbott can play his political games. He is a disgrace to Texas.
Cile Holloway, Texas Humane Legislation Network past president
I have never met Gov. Abbott personally but his recent behaviors, including veto of bipartisan SB474, the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act, make me suspect we have a small, self-centered governor who — when given the opportunity to help the powerless and voiceless — consistently opts not to. Perhaps he thinks he knows better than “animal control officers, law enforcement agencies and animal advocates” calling for reform?”
Kathy Davis, Houston√
Regarding “High court sides with ex-athletes in NCAA compensation case,” (June 21): In a concurring opinion on the NCAA case before the Supreme Court, Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote, “But the student athletes who generate the revenues, many of whom are African American and from lower-income backgrounds, end up with little or nothing.” How about an education? Imagine going to college, getting a degree, and graduating with minimal debt? How well a student does in the classroom and in competition is their choice. A smart student will negotiate both to their advantage.
Bill Klimko, Spring
Regarding “Florida gov heeds call from Texas, Arizona for border help,” (June 16): When both the president and vice president continue to shirk their duties at the U.S.-Mexico border, someone must step up to the plate. And it doesn’t surprise me one bit, that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is sending Florida officers to help out at the beleaguered border. Bravo, to DeSantis, who is proactively looking after America’s best interests. Come 2024, I fully expect to see DeSantis’ name on the ticket … either as Donald Trump’s vice president or the presidential slot. America first!
JoAnn Lee Frank, Clearwater, Fla.
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