Bush or the pope?
EDITED:I know this link was wrong yesterday, I fixed it now... sorry!!!
Catholics Debating: Back President or Pope on Iraq?
(I know some of you might not be able to read this without having an account with www.nytimes.com - if you are interested, it's free and they don't send you junk mail)
I read this article today and it leaves me just as confused about what Catholics see in the Pope. Well, it's true it's hardly unlikely that the Pope will tell anyone to go to war, but he will speak up if he thinks we need to come to aid to a nation or country in trouble. I also agree that the Pope is not primarily a politician nor a military strategist, but as Catholics we also don't always consider our social position, wealth or even our personal safety first when it comes to making morally justified decisions.
I will admit I don't know if this war is a good idea or not. I feel that it's impossible for normal consumers like me to really know what's going on.
I can tell you though that I do trust the Pope more than the president. People argue, the Pope does not have a country to defend so he just doesn't know. Well, I would say the Pope will have a more objective view because he is supposed to (and does) care more for all human beings regardless of their nationality, whereas the president is only required to care about his own citizens.
The reproach that the Pope will put all the emphasis on morality and justice for all, which should not be so relevant when talking about war, is justified.
And that's exactly why I'd rather believe him than anyone else.