>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
Chicago reporter and conservative radio host Dan Proft shared the controversial flyer on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his outrage. He wrote, “From a parish in suburban Chicago. If you see this circulating in your church, bring it right to your pastor and challenge this social justice propaganda. This is an affront to Bernardin’s ‘consistent ethic of life’ formulation. It’s nothing more than ornamental Catholics pushing the New Bolsheviks’ politics.”
Proft’s reference to the “New Bolsheviks” likens the flyer’s message to the radical left-wing movements of early 20th century Russia, drawing a stark comparison between the checklist’s progressive agenda and the anti-religious sentiment of the Bolshevik revolution.
The flyer’s message is not an official endorsement by the Catholic Church, the parish itself, or the Archdiocese of Chicago. However, many critics see it as emblematic of a broader shift within the Catholic Church, particularly under the leadership of Pope Francis, whom they accuse of steering the Church in a more progressive direction. Pope Francis, often referred to by his critics as the “Red Pope,” has emphasized social justice issues and environmental stewardship, positions that some see as in conflict with more traditional Catholic values.
This shift has left some conservative Catholics feeling alienated, particularly those who see the sanctity of life and opposition to abortion as non-negotiable aspects of their faith. The flyer’s failure to mention these issues has only intensified the criticism.
Proft also invoked the words of Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, a former Archbishop of Chicago who was known for his defense of life and his advocacy for a “consistent ethic of life.” Bernardin’s approach sought to connect the Church’s opposition to abortion with its broader social justice teachings, but he was clear that this connection should never minimize the importance of the pro-life movement.
In his quote, Bernardin said, “I know that some people on the left, if I may use that label, have used the consistent ethic to give the impression that the abortion issue is not all that important anymore, that you should be against abortion in a general way but that there are more important issues, so don’t hold anybody’s feet to the fire just on abortion…That’s a misuse of the consistent ethic, and I deplore it.”
Proft’s use of Bernardin’s words highlights the tension within the Catholic community over how best to balance social justice with the Church’s traditional teachings. For many conservative Catholics, the flyer represents a departure from the Church’s core mission of defending life at all stages and an embrace of a political agenda that prioritizes other issues at the expense of the pro-life cause.
TRUMP LOVES IT: Get the Presidential Blanket FREE Today! Supplies Running Out – Grab Yours NOW! 🕒👇
The controversy over the “Equally Sacred Checklist” underscores the growing divide within the Catholic Church, particularly in the United States. As the Church grapples with shifting political landscapes and evolving social issues, many are left wondering what direction the institution will ultimately take—and whether core principles like the sanctity of life will continue to hold their place at the center of Catholic teaching.
For now, the flyer has sparked outrage among conservative Catholics who see it as part of a larger attempt to push the Church toward the far left. Whether or not it will have a lasting impact on Catholic voters remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the battle for the soul of the Church is far from over.
