Church’s teachings come from Christ

John Drewes’ attack on the Catholic Church in his Feb. 9 letter is so full of hate and lies, as a Catholic I have to respond.

The church is granted religious freedom by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. What we believe cannot be denied or changed by any president.

The church’s divine authority comes direct from Jesus Christ, which he founded on Peter the first pope: “And I say to thee: That thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18) And, “ …. if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:15)

The church has given us Holy Scripture and tradition to guide us to holiness. Without this divine teaching authority, the Bible is left to tens of thousands of different interpretations and denominations. Obviously, the Bible cannot “cover” all aspects of morality, but through his Church, God speaks always. It is why he left us the church.

Basically, when a man and woman come together in the marital embrace, they must be open to life.

Artificial birth control (contraception) closes this door to life. The church does, however, approve of Natural Family Planning, when there is sufficient reason to delay a baby — the key is the couple is always open to the blessing of a family.

It is not a burden to be guided to righteousness by the church, it is freeing. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciple. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)

Chris LaRose

Potsdam