Catholics ‘afraid’ to disclose faith
A likely RENUA candidate in next year’s Local Elections has said many Catholics are afraid to disclose their faith to friends and employers.
And, the local businessman, Finbarr Filan says that since Leo Varadkar became Taoiseach, Catholics have felt like an oppressed minority.
Mr Filan, who chairman of Sligo BIDS, says the recent Phoenix Park Papal Mass indicates how deep the roots of faith are and should be respected.
“Instead, for political convenience, Mr Varadkar has turned the church into a scapegoat for disgraces all society are guilty of.
There can be no doubt the church has committed grave sins he says but adds, the punishment should not be visited upon the faithful.
“The current attack on the church for historical sins sits ill when coming from the lips of an administration that stands idly by, makes false promises and pretends it does not know about current scandals such as Cervical Check.
“Mr Varadkar is correct in saying there can only be zero tolerance for those who abuse innocent children or who facilitate the abuse.
“But that must apply to every-one and every institution of the state. We are a changing state and a warmer more understanding country. Tolerance however cuts both ways. Those who have faith do not only feel excluded and alienated from the Church. They also feel excluded from a state which treats them as the enemy within.
“It’s time Mr Varadkar practised what he preaches and engages in real dialogue with the church and those who remain within the faith.”