Why Some Evangelicals Don't Trust Us

Deal Hudson

Marjorie, your post belows explains, in part, why some Evangelicals don't understand or trust Catholics when it comes to political collaboration. 

"The California Catholic Conference of Bishops will not support VoteYesMarriage, reportedly, because the "tone, tactics and rhetoric are disturbing," and with the elimination of domestic partnership benefits, "would face formidable challenges at the polls."  The fate of a similar effort in Arizona, no doubt, influenced this decision."

I had an e-mail today from a Catholic revert who works in Congress. He asked me whether I have experienced the lack of enthusiasm among Catholics about sharing their faith, about being a bold witness in the public arena.

Yes I have. We all have.

The attitude of your California bishops in not backing VoteYesMarriage is a perfect example of the lack of leadership at the top. No wonder so many Catholics are lukewarm, or on the other side of the cultural debate.

Bottom line: Catholics and Evangelicals can profit from working with each other. Evangelicals have a high level of passion and a solid record of engagement.  Catholics have a natural law perspective that enables them to translate their faith into the language of politics.   

Together, Catholics and Evangelicals make up a voting group (not bloc) of over 30 million. A formidable force to be reckoned with.