Off the Record

...on again By Diogenes | November 10, 2008 9:19 AM

 Was it just a trial balloon we saw floated by Religion News Service last Friday? Or did the panjandrums of the USCCB really believe they could avoid a discussion of the US bishops' public stand on the politics of abortion?

We might never know for sure. But apparently your Uncle Di was not the only one appalled by that announcement, and the decision has been reversed. The topic is on the agenda again for this week's USCCB meeting. 

We have learned, however, that there is a substantial lobby within the bishops' conference, and especially within the administrative apparatus of the USCCB, that would prefer not to hold this discussion. Their argument, presumably, is that when a difficult problem arises, it's best not to talk about it-- much less to do something about it-- but to keep quiet and hope the problem will go away. 

That approach has worked out so well for the American bishops in the past decade, you know.

If you found this helpful, our bi-weekly Insights emails can notify you of key commentary items. Also, please support this apostolic work. Progress toward our February expenses ($12,066 to go): $17,000.00 $4,934.15 71% 29% Add Insights to your account. | Make a pledge or one-time donation.

It's Your Turn to Sound Off!

» To ensure well-meaning comments, only donors are allowed to Sound Off.
  If you're a donor, log in; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!

Sound Off! Comments

• Posted by: juon36 - Nov. 10, 2008 10:16 PM ET USA

  How do we get rid of the USCCB? Let me know ,I sure will help,.......ASAP.

• Posted by: Catholicity - Nov. 10, 2008 2:28 PM ET USA

  ...proving once again that national bishops conferences are pointless, unneeded, and in most cases detrimental to the Church.

• Posted by: Gil125 - Nov. 10, 2008 1:17 PM ET USA

  Actually, as long as all they do is talk about it, they're safe. Anybody who thinks they will do anything substantive is probably dipping into the incense supply.