A journalist emeritus, in the Eyes of the Believer column of the Catholic Times, gives the readers some thoughts on a situation that arises often within the Catholic Community here in Korea.
#Case 1. "During a Lenten penitential service one of the women insulted some priests who she felt were involved in political activities. She felt ashamed seeing also those who were offering Mass on the streets or in public places and embarrassed even to enter the church. Even though the act of confessing one's own sins during the penance service does not involve judging or condemning others, the woman's behavior was strange. She continued to cause a disturbance and was eventually led out of the church by volunteers."
#Case 2. On the afternoon of April 10, Seoul Plaza in Seoul. The National Catholic Priests’ Association for the Realization of Justice and believers held a prayer meeting for the current situation and chanted: “Down with the pro-Japanese prosecutorial dictatorship regime and restoration of sovereignty.” However, the next day, there was a little commotion in the Catholic journalists' chat room. When the person who went to the site posted related news, a few photos, and a short message, several people left the chat room. A Protestant pastor's ultraconservative views evoked discomfort and they left. Then the objections followed. "I think there will be less resistance if we think of it as news we need to know or a trend within the Catholic Church."
The above two incidents happened right after Lent and the Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord this month. First of all, the writer came across the penitential incident from a priest's post on Facebook and was shocked to see it. Despite her personal views, the woman did not observe even the minimal manners of a believer. Actions that would be seen at a rally or demonstration were committed without hesitation in a church where a sacrament was held. However, the seriousness of the problem lies in the fact that such believers are increasing in parishes. It's sad to see this happening in the Catholic Church.
In the second case, political inclinations are divided even within communities of the same faith. The silent majority simply does not reveal their color. There is a saying to avoid discussing politics and religion when a large group gathers. This is to prevent wasteful disputes and conflicts. However, religion is an exception in gatherings of believers, so political issues sometimes become a topic of discussion. Each time, a subtle war of nerves breaks out depending on whether the conservative or progressive are in the lead. On one side, there is a concern that issues outside of faith may damage the church community, and on the other side, there is an emphasis on the unity of knowledge and practice.
"Let's broaden our thinking beyond political differences. Does a life of faith end within the boundaries of the church, or can we also show interest in the world outside? The answer to this question can be found in the 'Social Doctrine' and the Second Vatican Council. The Social Doctrine deals with various topics, such as the rights of workers, economic justice, the responsibilities of individuals and the state, environmental issues, and calls for proactive action."
Is it enough to believe in oneself and accumulate good karma to be saved? No. The essence of the church believes in the gospel and follows the Lord in community. The church must also turn its gaze into the world. That is the will of God who created the world. The same is true at the level of evangelization. Love of neighbor as much as love of God is the core teaching of the Bible. The same goes for protecting the earth, a common home suffering from the climate crisis.
May is the month of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a time to imitate the virtues of the Blessed Mother, the model of believers. There is no need to turn our backs on others with whom we disagree and fight over differences in political views within the same faith. Let's accept each other's differences and diversity as we are not the same in terms of personality and way of thinking. He hopes that we will recognize that these difficulties or happenings are trivial in the big picture. Let's seek the mercy and grace of God who wants to lead us to salvation, and let's cultivate consideration, respect, and tolerance for others.
