Today, the Vatican called on Bishop Richard Williamson to recant his statements of Holocaust denial. While Israel’s foreign ministry may think this is a step in the right direction, we’re left feeling utterly confused. If you don’t think the bishop should be out and about, claiming no gas chambers existed, why let him back into the fold?
It’s illogical. First, he and his kind are excommunicated as their beliefs do not fit in with those of the Church. Makes sense – going on the Willliamson quotes we’ve been reading. Then, in a fit of so-called charity and unity, Benedict invites him back, but, as it turns out, pressuring him to renounce his views. Huh? You’re sending mixed messages, dear Benedict.
We are glad that in his interview with the IJN’s Chris Leppek, Archbishop Charles Chaput spoke out clearly against Williamson and against Holocaust denial in general.
But we feel more heartened by statements made by German-speaking Jewish communities, making it clear in no uncertain terms that the Vatican’s behavior is intolerable.
On Monday, Stephan Kramer, secretary general of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, highlighted the Pope’s national origin, finding it particularly shocking that a German pope would rehabilitate Williamson.
And just today, after a two-day conference earlier this week, the Jewish communities of Germany, Switzerland and Austria released a statement of topics discussed, choosing to conclude with the issue of Williamson’s rehabilitation.
In times like these, where anti-Semitic incidents are once again on the rise, it’s vital to fight against what Benedict has done, against the message he’s sent by opening the Church’s doors to a Holocaust denier.
Hmm, very cognitive post.
Is this theme good unough for the Digg?