Fr. Ryan's Legacy and Other Friday Fun

Current Health Care Debate and Our Catholic Conscience

As the debate heats up over socialized medicine it is important to remember that as a Catholic institution we represent the Church to our young people. Although we must refrain from endorsing any political party we are certainly always conscious of our responsibility to form our morals around the authentic teachings of the Church.

Unfortunately not every issue is perfectly clear. The debate around healthcare and reform is certainly one of these lovely gray issues. Just what should a Catholic support? We know the Church is pretty clear about a preferential option for the poor and the concept of what we call "distributive justice" yet we are often concerned with the limiting of human "freedom".

Although the health care debate may be the newest incarnation of this struggle it is not alone in history. Father Ryan was an enlightened voice during the formation of the new deal and part of a vigorous national debate between Catholics of opposing political camps.

I stumbled upon this article the other day that sheds light on the issue in terms of the previous historical arguments surrounding the "New Deal". It's worth a read and provides some context for the current debate we are engaged in.

Link to Article on "Distributive Justice" and the legacy of Father Ryan

Are you an A%#?
Here's a link from a popular blog that asks us to evaluate our role in any organization. It's worth a look and a laugh.

Are you one?

Power of Web 2.0
Ever wonder how a single consumer can cause a 10% dip in a company's stock and a loss of $180 million for shareholders. United Airlines has recently suffered some interesting losses thanks in large part to the work of a Canadian County Musician. On his flight from Halifax to Lincoln Mr. Carroll had to change planes in Chicago. While there he witnessed baggage clerks throwing his guitar on the tarmac. United refused after many months to pay the damages so Carroll responded with this video. Two more are planned. In the digital age the consumer certainly has more power.