Freedom of conscience: how it works (Main Forum)

by Ynot , Thursday, September 03, 2009, 07:50 (331 days ago) @ Englishwoman

For its clarity, forged under pressure, this is one of the most decisive statements about the ordination of women so far and deserves to be nailed to cathedral doors.

“For four decades I have devoted my ministry to advocating on behalf of the marginalized through religious congregations, justice organizations, ecumenical and interfaith groups” Akers told NCR. “Women’s ordination is a justice issue. Its basis is the value, dignity and equality of women. I believe this to my very core. To publicly state otherwise would be a lie and a violation of my conscience. I love, support and cherish the part of Church that upholds the gospel mission and vision of Jesus.”

She quoted the words of Martin Luther, uttered centuries ago: “Here I stand. I cannot do otherwise.”

Sister of Charity Louise Akers exposes the simple truth about conscience too, as the response posted by Englishwoman points out.

"The first step toward mind-control is to remove any ability to question one's environment or the rules of living within it."

Let's face it this has been part of Church culture for centuries, maybe for ever. It actually is an attempt to control what people are thinking. When the authority forbids me to discuss an idea, it is trying to choke that idea in the dark dungeon of my imprisoned mind, and mostly it succeeds all too easily because we respect or fear the authority.

Thanks Peter and Mary for bringing this to our attention.

'TonyL
"A post is a free gift, and it will go where it pleases."'