The political reality of being a Catholic

Re “Divining a good Catholic,” Opinion, July 28

I am nearing my 71st birthday. At age 5, the good catechists were my first formal teachers of Catholic doctrine. This education continued through Catholic grade school, high school and college. The teachings in the area of faith and morals, based on Scripture and tradition, have never varied; they have been clear and consistent. Referring to “conservative” versus “liberal” Catholic teaching is not plausible, because consistency over time has been the hallmark of the faith.

Supporting the “Bush agenda” or being a “liberal” Democrat is not the test. Adhering to the church’s teachings, measured with an informed conscience, should be our hallmark for being a “good” or “bad” Catholic.

Perhaps it is we who have used our free will to accept or refuse the validity of these teachings that define conservative versus liberal. That is an issue that ultimately will be resolved between us and God, not by a columnist.

Angelo P. Calfo

Thousand Oaks

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For most of my 81 years, I have been a practicing Catholic. I am also a native of the Deep South, and am amazed at how soon we forget. I remember, vividly, when the so-called WASPs (White Anglo Southern Protestants) detested all Catholics. The burning cross was not always a symbol of hatred toward blacks; it was also a symbol of hatred toward Catholics.

I don’t believe that’s changed. Conservative Republicans and their supporters are not interested in our religious views; they are interested in our Republican votes.

Paul P. DuPlessis

Diamond Bar