The Kansas Catholic Church apolitical? It hasn’t been for a long time | Opinion
Politics? Yes
Thank you, Melinda Henneberger, for giving more information on what happened at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. (March 30, 17A, “KC man tackled, handcuffed at church after unauthorized but straight-from-Jesus prayer”)
It is apparent that no emergency plan was in place. Someone could have been seriously hurt. Perhaps this wasn’t the best way for Jimbo Gillcrist to express his message, but what is a person to do when he has been blacklisted from talking about God’s word?
I disagree that the church is not political. It has been for quite a while. The recent statement that we must always obey all authorities is frightening. Other examples from Catholic leadership in Kansas:
- Former Gov. Kathleen Sebelius was told she probably shouldn’t take Communion.
- We were told we weren’t good Catholics if we didn’t vote for George W. Bush.
- We were told the Russia-Ukraine war would end if the Keystone pipeline opened.
- We read columns in The Leaven by a Catholic lobbyist who trashes Gov. Laura Kelly and fails to present all the facts about bills introduced in the Legislature.
Not one church authority I’m aware of has called out border czar Tom Homan, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Vice President JD Vance or the Trump administration for actions or statements that are against Catholic teachings.
My Catholic grade school principal used to admonish us: “You jellyfish! Where’s your backbone? You’re only one-sided!”
- Toni Gelpi, Overland Park
Good on Moran
Several weeks ago, I challenged Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran to do the right thing in working to restore the authority of Congress. (March 16, 17A, Letters) He has taken a step toward that by co-authoring a bill to require congressional approval of any new tariffs. (April 9, 1A, “Sen. Moran backs bill to restrict Trump on tariffs”)
We need more U.S. senators and representatives to follow Sen. Moran’s lead. It is what our democracy demands.
- Joanne Bodner, Overland Park
No do-overs
I am angry and disturbed at my fellow Missourians and elected officials regarding Amendment 3. The initiative petition process collected more than enough signatures to get this on the November 2024 ballot. The courts tried to find reason to remove it because some people don’t believe women’s reproductive rights include abortion. It was ruled to stay on the ballot and was passed with a popular vote of 51.6% to 48.4%.
This is how democracy works. Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. The vote of the people should stand without a do-over.
The refusal to accept the outcome angers me. Women have every right to decide whether they are ready to have children or if they choose not to have any at all. It is none of anyone else’s business.
I believe the arrogance exhibited in our state on this issue is appalling. I am fighting and will remain in the fight to keep Amendment 3 in place.
- Jeanette Rouse, Springfield
COVID help
I read the recent story “While others moved on, long COVID-19 changed ‘the trajectory’ of Kansas City women’s lives” on KansasCity.com and appreciated the coverage of its ongoing impact. However, I believe the article missed key points.
Scientists stress that each new COVID infection increases the risk of long COVID, a crucial fact when discussing the struggles of those battling this condition. It is estimated that 3% to 4% of vaccinated individuals will have lingering symptoms that do not resolve after every COVID infection. These symptoms range from mild to severe and can significantly damage quality of life.
Although the article highlighted challenges, it did not mention vital resources for those suffering from long COVID. Many rely on specialized clinics such as the University Health Center for COVID Recovery or online support groups to connect with others and manage symptoms.
Information about available support systems is essential for those coping with long COVID. Including it would empower readers to access the care and community they need.
- Jenna Hopkins, Occupational therapist, University Health Center for COVID Recovery, Kansas City
Corrupt bargain
If you want to reduce waste and fraud in government, why fire the inspectors general who serve as nonpartisan watchdogs for that purpose? If you want to reduce waste and inefficiency, why fire professional civil servants and replace them with political appointees in a spoils system? If you want to reduce waste and the deficit, why fire IRS employees who audit and minimize tax fraud?
Buckle up, America. We are about to experience a wave of corruption unlike anything we have ever seen. Let’s hope the courts can put the brakes on this destruction of our constitutional system. Sadly, Congress doesn’t appear to have the foresight or courage to steer us through Donald Trump’s presidential power grab. The result will be fewer government services and more corruption.
It is an illusion that the Department of Government Efficiency is saving much money, and it certainly is not making even a dent in the national debt. What is especially concerning is the cruelty with which this political purge is being conducted. Lives are being ruined, careers destroyed, families upended.
Is this really who we are and what we want as Americans?
- Phil D. Wann, St. Joseph