Dateline Dayton – Each workday morning, I check the internet for local news, world news and business news. Last Friday I came across a posting “Forget the Mormon movement, it’s about Catholics” and the Roman Catholic Church.

Being Catholic, this posting grabbed my attention. The article pointed out that this will be the first time that both major party tickets will have Catholics, Joe Biden and Paul Ryan. Most of the article dealt with the importance of winning the Catholic vote, one-quarter of the electorate. It went on to say that the candidate who wins the Catholic vote, although they don’t vote as a block, usually wins the White House, as was the case with President Obama in 2008.

There was a lot of speculation in the article regarding New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan giving the benediction at the Republican National Convention, this week. The writer questioned if this was being done to convey that the Catholic Church was endorsing the Romney-Ryan ticket.

I realize there is supposed to be a separation of church and state. However, with government constantly meddling in church business, it’s time for churches to take an active role in government. There has to be a way churches can be active in politics (not at a service) and still maintain their charitable exemption.

The one statement in the article that really got my attention was, “Vice President Biden and Ryan are lifelong Catholics who attend Mass regularly and credit the church with shaping their views.”

Joe must not be paying much attention while attending church. The Roman Catholic Church is against abortion. If the church does shape his views, I can’t see how he can support the President’s or the Democratic Party’s position on abortion. The vice president himself even supports abortions, Obamacare and the President’s lack of respect for religious views. This indicates to me he must be thinking about his golf game or other off the wall subjects while attending Mass.

I realize most politicians will do and say whatever is necessary to get elected. Going against the teaching of their church could be small potatoes compared to other things they are willing to do to acquire the funds necessary to run a campaign. Selling their soul to the devil or a special interest group, even if it’s against their principles, easily could be worth the money they receive.

Personally, I can’t see how any person who claims to have religious values could vote for the present administration. I’ve said it before and I know I will be saying it again before Election Day: Anyone would be better than the President we have.

Another Drink? No, Thanks

Last Monday, there was a posting regarding the Bishop-elect of San Francisco being arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. I’m not going to defend his actions because if the charge is true, he was wrong. You must remember, however, that priests, even if they’re bishops, are human, just like you and me. They, too, make mistakes.

Have a happy and safe Labor Day weekend. Please don’t’ drink and drive.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net