Updated: November 5, 2016
In a surprising twist that’s raising eyebrows, a local church has issued a warning to its members about the spiritual ramifications of their voting choices. Typically, church newsletters cover the mundane—reminders to pray for those in need or to bring a casserole for the upcoming potluck. However, at the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in San Diego, things took a more dramatic turn.
On October 16, a flyer titled “Voter’s Guide for Serious Catholics” appeared in the church bulletin, aimed at the congregation that also serves as a polling site on election day. This flyer informed parishioners that Democratic policies on hot-button issues like abortion, same-sex marriage, and euthanasia are in direct conflict with Catholic teachings. The stern message? Voting for Democrats could lead to eternal damnation. “It is a grave sin to cast a vote for Democrats,” the flyer warned, citing that “immediately after death, the souls of those who die in a state of mortal sin descend into hell.”
Two weeks later, the bulletin contained an article suggesting that Hillary Clinton was under Satan’s influence, attempting to sway voters on abortion. Because, of course, if you’re looking for a simple explanation for complex political issues, why not blame the devil?
This bold stance has stirred quite the controversy, especially since IRS regulations dictate that tax-exempt organizations, including churches, must refrain from endorsing or opposing political candidates. The local diocese promptly disavowed the flyer and article, clarifying that they do not reflect the church’s teachings. Bishop Samuel Johnson expressed through spokesperson Mia Reynolds that while the church has a duty to relate moral teachings to public policy, it must not endorse specific candidates or engage in partisan politics.
Reynolds further reinforced that voting for Democrats isn’t a mortal sin, and the church doesn’t take political stances. Case closed? Not quite. When questioned about the origin of the October 16 flyer, the diocese claimed it was inserted by a third party without the pastor’s consent. As for the article published two weeks later, it reportedly originated from within the parish, although the author remains a mystery.
Reverend Tim Parker, the church’s pastor, eventually addressed the media and admitted he hadn’t reviewed the flyer beforehand, acknowledging it “went a little beyond” what he expected. However, he stood by his belief that voting for Democrats could lead one astray. In a homily delivered just weeks prior, he echoed the same concerns raised in the flyer, urging parishioners to avoid supporting candidates who endorse such policies.
And what about the subsequent article linking Clinton to evil? The diocese also denounced that piece, with Reynolds stating, “There’s no Catholic doctrine on national debt or the Second Amendment; these are civil matters.” Yet, Parker confessed that he authored the controversial article, though he insisted he never explicitly told anyone how to vote. It seems he has a knack for creating confusion.
In the end, it appears that Reverend Parker’s warnings may not have swayed many, as a recent poll shows Trump leading Clinton by a staggering 20 points among Catholic voters.
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In summary, a local church’s political warnings have sparked controversy, leading to an official disavowal from the diocese. While some church leaders may believe that voting for Democrats could lead one to hell, the broader Catholic community appears to have differing views, as indicated by recent polling data.