Catholicism and Communism

Paragraph 2425 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church states as follows:

2425 The Church has rejected the totalitarian and atheistic ideologies associated in modem times with "communism" or "socialism." She has likewise refused to accept, in the practice of "capitalism," individualism and the absolute primacy of the law of the marketplace over human labor. Regulating the economy solely by centralized planning perverts the basis of social bonds; regulating it solely by the law of the marketplace fails social justice, for "there are many human needs which cannot be satisfied by the market." Reasonable regulation of the marketplace and economic initiatives, in keeping with a just hierarchy of values and a view to the common good, is to be commended.


Over an over again the charge of "Marxist!" and "Communist!" is hurled at Pope Francis. Over and over again people like me - good Catholics, loyal Americans and people who do not have an economic degree - are called to explain to people that the Catholic Church does not endorse any economic structure that forgets that the development of economics cannot forget what its primary purpose is: to allow for human beings to provide for their needs. All economic activity must correspond to God's plan for man and so, must be developed within the limits of moral order.

This is why I found myself sighing in frustration when yesterday, a dear friend who is on her journey to full communion with The Church, was bombarded by an ugly and angry man who posted on her Face Book page a link to a interview with the Holy Father. He referred to him as "Dumbass Bergolio" (because this man, who claims to be a Christian and claims to be studying for his PhD at Fuller Theological Seminary believes that name-calling is a legitimate means of advancing arguments of any kind) and basically told her (I will use my own words) that she is joining a Church that advances the cause of communism.

Here is what is so sad. The article (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/30/pope-francis-communists-christian-_n_5543423.html?page_version=legacy) quotes the Holy Father poking his finger in the eye of anyone who declares they are a communist and so much, much better than those horrible religious types. He also pokes fun at people who forget the basics - what is the purpose of ANY economic system?

Because the woman on this journey is a staunch supporter of Capitalism, she found herself at a loss for words.

I did what any reasonable person can do: I referred her to the source. Go to the Catechism, I suggested, and read for yourself.

I will do the same now. If you are truly concerned that the Catholic Church is being lead by a communist, please take the time to read what it is Holy Mother Church teaches. Start at paragraph 2425 and read through paragraph 2436. It is not a lot of reading, and it is not difficult reading.

It will, however, let you know exactly what it is Holy Mother Church teaches.

Once you learn that, the anti-Catholics, the bigots, the uninformed and the ignorant will have no power over you.

You will know the Truth - and the Truth shall set you Free!