Problem does not rest with the pope

This is regarding Florence Smith's letter of Aug. 18. It is not the pope's, but rather her remarks that are unfortunate. It is sad that she makes a greater effort to malign church teaching than she does to understand and to follow it. She compounds her error by elevating herself over the holy father himself, when she says, "How dare he approve a document..." and proceeds to mislead the reader to believe that one cannot be saved unless one is Catholic.

Granted that she probably quoted the media as if it had the same inerrancy of scripture, but this is unacceptable when the actual transcripts are readily available on the Vatican Web site:

"It follows that these separated Churches and Communities, though we believe they suffer from defects, are deprived neither of significance nor importance in the mystery of salvation. In fact the Spirit of Christ has not refrained from using them as instruments of salvation..."

Florence goes on by saying, "How embarrassing it is to be a Catholic today" and, "Pope Benedict deserves the criticism of Protestant leaders." She expresses her opinion and that of "many Catholics," as if that had any weight. The church is not a democracy, and no one is obligated to join. Jesus Christ invites everyone, but asks that we follow his teaching.

To be Catholic is to humbly submit to the apostolic teaching and authority which has been faithfully handed down for more than 2000 years. Every Catholic church has clearly marked exit doors.

Leo Miklius

Palatine