Coercion by the Church

Re “Bishop Adds Voters to Communion Ban,” May 15: This time the Catholic Church has gone too far! A Colorado bishop’s attempt to coerce Catholics to vote a certain way or be denied communion is yet another sign of how badly Catholics need to revolt. As a former Catholic, I know well the passive resistance many Catholics use when faced with the unrealistic and at times irresponsible teachings of the church. The use of birth control, for example, is not allowed by the church; yet, if polled, I would venture that most American Catholics would admit to using it.

Since the Catholic Church doesn’t allow discussion on anything, it’s easier for most to just ignore those teachings that are atavistic. But this time Catholics must stop with the passive resistance and speak up. We live in a free country, where the right to vote for the candidate of our choice is at the core of our liberties. The coercion being used by Bishop Michael Sheridan is absolutely unacceptable.

Mayra Puchalski

West Covina