Religious freedom is one of the hallmarks of U.S. society. But this bedrock principle is increasingly being challenged across the nation — both by government officials seeking to infringe on the deepest convictions held by religious groups as well as by those seeking to muzzle the voice of churches and other faith communities in the public square.
Now that our elected leaders have collided in a game of “chicken” and significant portions of state government are idled, a pall has been cast over Minnesota.
Christ’s particular love for sinners, despite our willfulness and pride, is a wondrous and liberating revelation. It is, in fact, a critical component of the Good News.
We hear it in various forms. Some complain that the church should not be speaking out on divisive issues, but instead should spend its time and resources feeding the poor and spreading God’s love.
Others say the church as a religious organization should have no role in the formation of civil laws. Still others complain that the church should not be weighing in on so many issues where there seems to be legitimate room for disagreement.
Catholic health care facilities and Catholic Charities could be among service providers that would feel the impact of a state government shutdown if Republican legislators and Gov. Mark Dayton fail to solve the state budget impasse by July 1.