Bishop Mulhall's pastoral letter defends Catholic education

Bishop of Pembroke Michael Mulhall

Everyday For Life Canada happily welcomes and fully supports Bishop Michael Mulhall's Pastoral Letter, dated October 11, 2012. It strongly defends Catholic education. After the publication of this important statement to the faithful of the Diocese of Pembroke, the Archbishop of Toronto, Thomas Cardinal Collins also made remarks to back Catholic teaching in Catholic schools during the Cardinal's dinner. The letter is in both official languages French and English. Ontario Catholic parents should take some comfort in knowing that our Catholic shepherds have made it clear to the Minister of Education and the Government of Ontario that Catholic education will not be and should not be compromised in any way by "equity and inclusive education" and Bill 13. This is a wonderful message as we look for spiritual guidance during this special Year of Faith. Here now is the letter in its entirety.



My dear Faithful of the Diocese of Pembroke,



On Wednesday, the Minister of Education of the Government of Ontario stated that certain teachings of the Catholic Church, namely, the teaching regarding the sanctity of life with regard to abortion, should not be permitted in Catholic schools. The statement is very disturbing but hardly surprising.



As we begin this Year of Faith, I take this opportunity to assure you, the faithful, parents, children and administrators of Catholic Schools and other Catholic institutions that the Catholic Church will continue to preach the beauty of the Gospel of Christ in its fullness and without compromise.



As Bishop of Pembroke I will continue this mission in the parishes and in those recognized Catholic institutions in the Diocese of Pembroke. The Church will also defend her legitimate autonomy from outside organizations which attempt to define the content of Roman Catholic teaching.

 As a Bishop of the Catholic Church, this is a sacred obligation and a joyful mission which was entrusted to me on the day of my ordination.



Please know of my continued prayers as we begin the year of reflection on the beauties of our faith.



Yours sincerely in Christ,



+Michael Mulhall

Bishop of Pembroke


(Note: we encourage readers, if they wish, to let both bishop Mulhall and Cardinal Collins know that you fully support their decision to speak out to defend Catholic education and Catholic schools.)