Raves, Rants & Roses

RESPONSE: I am insulted and amazed by the few letters suggesting we (as a country) should not provide some government security for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI. It is a contradiction of thought that a holy man with an undisputed and world-wide ecumenical reputation, comes to the USA, and is criticized by an admitted Christian.

The Pope’s visit was as much an affair-of-state as it was a sacred visit. Security and protection, provided by the U.S.A. is prudent and is always provided. Consider the fact that the writer (so) of these improper letters concerning our Holy Father have no base-in-fact for their comments. The last thing we need is for a visiting head-of-state to meet with foul play here. If something were to happen to the Pope there would be a “feeding frenzy” of international terrorist organizations taking credit for the action. The USA has always taken the lead in protecting visiting dignitaries, as well it should.

Our country has always held its holy men with respect and reverence. The Rev. Billy Graham and Chicago’s late prelate, Cardinal Bernadine, were respected by the nation as a whole.

Just as I, a proud Roman Catholic, respect the Lou Thomas, Michael Masser, and Rabbi Neal Katzs of our community. A man of God is a man of God.

Michael Mahfood
Tyler