What if the president started weighing in on Catholic doctrine?

Suppose Trump publicly questioned the Church's stance on birth control, calling it outdated and irresponsible. It places a real burden on young couples trying to make ends meet.

I suspect Pope Leo XIV wouldn't appreciate that. He'd likely say the president should stay in his lane and not interfere with Catholic teaching.

Ok...fair enough.

But that principle should work both ways.

If political leaders are expected to stay out of religious doctrine, then religious leaders should be cautious about stepping into the political arena, especially in a country like the United States, where decisions are shaped by many factors, not just what may be considered Biblically acceptable.

There's a difference between offering moral guidance and attempting to influence policy. When the Pope speaks in ways that clearly lean on governments to act a certain way, he's no longer just teaching doctrine.

Once you step over that line, you invite scrutiny.

Sy,

I saw that picture. Its all in the eye of the beholder.

Trump had some thing he said about being a teacher or something.

I didnt quite see that but I didn't see Jesus depicted either.

Perhaps showing compassion or bearing a light.

It was pretty strange but I didnt see it as depicting Jesus.

Really, I'm not giving it a second thought.

Sy,

"Your President is a Pedophile and Rapist"

Paul the Apostle, who wrote much of the New Testament, was once Saul of Tarsus, a man who persecuted Christians and approved of their deaths.

Then he changed and helped guide the early Christian churches.

Christianity doesn't erase what someone was. It recognizes what they become.

That's the whole point of forgiveness.

I don't know what Donald Trump believes or feels. He says he's been spared, that God protected him.

I'll say this. I've seen moments in my own life where I believe the same thing.

Lamp,

"Depriving those in Florida who are in need?"

Yea...it does sound excessive.

Lamp,

I don't like what Trump is doing but it is the world of politics.

The Pope stepped into the political arena and is seeing what happens when you correct the President.

Lamp,

Maybe the Vatican should fund the program.

Stay out of politics if you don't want to play the game.

One,

You're a step ahead of me.

Please explain don't exist. You know something I don't.

Lamp,

"his actions towards those he seems to dislike indicates that he may be a cruel person."

I think he plays to win.

I mean...why bother otherwise?

Donner,

Protestants get a better deal.

DIY.

Donner,

From the comfort of your home.

Sort of like mail-in ballots you don't have to go in person.

Db,

"Plenty of Catholics are as batshit crazy"

Years ago I was installing PCs in an office at a Catholic church.

I was surprised at the language I heard.

The Baptists I knew were more reserved.

The Catholics in that office talked a lot more about parties and drinking. It felt out of place for a church administrative setting.

I know that was just my own experience but it left me pretty shocked.

Db,

"Do you see this as a game?"

If you mean "game" like fun, no.

If you mean "game" like strategy and competition, yes.

Fiend,

I see you didn't catch the mockery in my "in person" comment.

Laura,

"Awwwwwwww you're still butt hurt over mail-in voting??"

It's only a matter of time before mail-in ballots are not allowed for federal elections.

Who will be butt hurt then?