Restore religion to public square

Letter to the Editor
Wisconsin State Journal

As a citizen who is deeply concerned about ever growing voter apathy I found Bishop Morlino’s defense of his actions both refreshing and encouraging. With vacuous and expensive sham attack ads replacing a once vibrant political debate, it’s way past time when both right, left and mainstream religion once again join fully and vigorously in the public discourse.

In a society with ever growing political correctness both Bishop Morlino and Pope Benedict have been courageous in clearly stating doctrinal positions, for example, “there is one God…Christ Jesus” – and letting the chips fall where they may.

I become uneasy when I read that America’s religious fervor is becoming increasingly non-doctrinal and private. In such a climate differing ideas ---the heart of a vibrant democracy --- are lost from public debate.

According to religious sociologist Alan Wolfe, what increasingly matters to most Christians are not “ideas” but feelings and “having a personal relationship with Jesus.” If Pope Benedict and Bishop Morlino succeed in bringing their flocks back into the public square greater voter turnout and a richer democracy will follow.

Respectfully,

William R. Benedict
Madison, WI