April Fool’s Day – Catholic Style

April fool’s Day – Catholic Style

I’m doubt if religious bureaucrats are better qualified than so-called laypeople to offer philosophical commentary based on their organizational status. The timing of Archbishop Terrence Prendergast’s April 1 musings was perfect, arriving as they did on April fool’s day. Perhaps the joke is on those who follow non-Christian traditions or dare to seek answers within their own minds. Pendergast's musings on Jesus confirm that superstition and mythology are still mainstream in 2018. Claims that Jesus was the “son of god” and that he performed miracles show a clear belief in supernatural phenomenon. Naturally, Christian zealots conveniently exempt their beliefs from the regular standards of evidence applied to other areas of human interest. 

Jesus, the historical figure seems to have spoken bravely and paid dearly for his courage. I doubt if he would get far if he showed up today and carried on as he formerly did. Jesus had little time for the wealthy and powerful, preferring the company of criminals, prostitutes and lepers.

The Archbishop of Ottawa is free to believe whatever he wishes but his perspective is as medieval as his priestly garb. When he starts encouraging the Pope to sell off Vatican treasures and redistribute the wealth, I’ll take him more seriously. Although we’ll never know for sure, that probably what Jesus would done; not because he was the “son of god” but because he was a rebel who threatened the privileged and powerful.

Morgan Duchesney

Ottawa