Expert: Edward Bode - 5/14/2005

Question
Hello Edward,


Would it be considered a sin of omission for Bishops who have been instructed to counsel an anti-life Catholic politican or judge fail to do so, or after they do, fail to them as Eucharistic Ministers,or from recieving Holy Communion?


Also, concerning the sin of omission:  Is it a  sin of omission to support laws that do not promote the "Gospel of Life?"


And would it be a sin of omission to look the other way, especially today concerning vice crimes (i.e. prostitution, sodomy, and pornography)?  In that, respected statistics today show that many street prostitutes and numerous homosexuals engaged in sexual activity are MOSTLY HIV positive or STD positive.  AND that to not lock them up (tp protect them and society), is allowing many of them to commit murder, spread HIV and STD's, since many have been tested and know they are infected it!


Thanks,




Paul

Answer
I am not a moral theologian, Paul, so I am not qualified to answer your questions.
However, the issues that you raise are important ones of church and public policy.
Generally speaking, sins of omission arise from either an obligation of justice [authorities] or of charity.  Obligations of charity depend upon both the likelihood of success and the amount of effort that one can expend.
Personally, I try to contact legislators about issues that relate especially to life.  Success is often limited by many factors, some of which are beyond an individual official's control.
I wish you the best, Paul.
Sorry not to be able to be of help.