Santa Clara and morality

By George Barnidge

As a Catholic institution, SCU must never shy away from explicitly, consistently, and continuously affirming issues that are fundamental to its Catholic identity, even those issues that are difficult to digest in a world that is increasingly hostile to Catholic principles.

The SCU community's diverse backgrounds lead to healthy discussions.  Yet SCU, in its general tone and the specifics of classroom discussions, must remain vigilant to promote Catholic beliefs amidst this diversity.

SCU did an excellent job preaching the Gospel message about our obligation to care for the poor.  This legitimate message of compassion needs to be heard.  But not once during my time at SCU did I hear SCU explicitly promote the core Catholic belief in the right to life of the unborn.  

The Catholic faith challenges us to see God in the most fragile among us.  Some at SCU have undoubtedly struggled with the hardships of an untimely pregnancy, and we need to be reminded that we also have an obligation to support those in these difficult circumstances.

I can recall a private discussion with a Jesuit who said, "Morally, I oppose abortion; but politically, I support it."  Another staff member expressed her disdain at George Bush's decision to invoke the Mexico City Policy, thereby precluding taxes from funding overseas abortions.  This moral confusion is incompatible with SCU's Catholic identity.

On this anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, I challenge the entire SCU community to enthusiastically embrace and vocally promote a culture of life from the moment of conception.

George Barnidge

Class of 2001