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1. It is reasonable for people approaching a Catholic agency to expect that the employees and leaders of that agency, support and know what the Catholic church teaches about certain social and moral situations.
   With regard to international aid organisations, the fact is that there are many, many non-religious organisations doing great work in meeting the physical needs of the poor and needy - so it is right that Pope Benedict addresseds the question: what makes Catholic agencies different? 1 Peter 3:15 says: Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
   As Christians, we're called to not only give material support, but 'with gentleness and respect' to share the hope that we have experienced - which is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

   Posted By: Catherine

2. Some sectors even within the Catholic Church would label the move of Pope Benedict as conservative.
   But this is simply a natural thing to do and a reasonable move. Identity and Mission must go together and must be explicitly expressed and not hidden into "politically correct" statements.
   When an atheist or anti-catholic person lambasts the church, some would call it freedom of speech.
   But when the Church would speak out on issues that are based on its social and moral teachings, some would call the Church intervening with social and political spheres. The believe that the Church is in the losing end when we cajole as to what society wants. The Church must be very aggressive today in a world where aggression against the Church is happening. If Catholic agencies are ashamed to show their catholic identity and character, then those in that agency must discern who they are and what they are there for vis-a-vis the identity and mission of that Catholic agency they are involved in.
   Enough with being too timid and shy, we have to put up our standards high and show to the world the best of the Catholic church. Even in the midst of the scandals that rock the Church and other Churches and institutions, we ought to maintain our identity in favour of those honest to goodness Catholic who still need keep and hold on to the faith.

   Posted By: Frank

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