Archbishop Listecki Responds to Health Care Legislation Through Weekly E-mail to Catholics

The day after Congress passed the national health care bill, I woke up sick, not figuratively, but literally. I certainly hope this is not an omen.

My opposition to the health care bill is two-fold. First, I am not convinced that there are sufficient provisions to protect federal funds from their use in supporting abortions (the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops was right in their opposition). Second, the price tag on the current legislation will severely cripple the already fragile United States economy placing on the backs of our future generations a terrible financial debt.

Is there a need for health care reform? Yes. No one would disagree about the need for reform, but unfortunately by passing flawed legislation I am fearful we will turn the most advanced national medical environment into a profession that is satisfied with the adequate rather than the excellent.

At the same time, I am not convinced the poor will be better served. But, it is only time that will tell how history will depict this moment. Until then, we all must be vigilant that abortions are not the product of the new health care reform; that doctors and nurses will be able to exercise their right to conscience; and that the poor will have access to adequate health care.

As people of faith, we do have a responsibility for our brothers and sisters in need. Recently much has been made about the term social justice. Some are trying to characterize this term as an off shoot of a socialist or communist agenda. Social justice is the responsibility all of us have -- individually, locally, nationally and even globally -- to cooperate with each other to further the common good. Social Justice finds its root in the Gospel and holds us accountable before the Lord for our responsibility to others. The Gospel is the ultimate criteria by which our actions are judged.

Therefore, when we go forward with any social legislation claiming it furthers the common good, consideration must first be given to the dignity of all human life. So I guess, I‘ll just take a pill and pray that we get it right, that is, love one another.

To sign up for Archbishop Listecki's weekly e-mail, "Love One Another," or to read past editions of "Love One Another," click here.