‘Conclave’ worth seeing
To the Editor:
The movie “Conclave” is not for the easily offended. Catholic viewers will no doubt squirm seeing cardinals jockeying to be pope; more like politicians than shepherds. The bizarre ending is likely included for shock value (and to garner Academy Award nominations).
That being said, the film includes a very moving scene in which the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Lawrence, delivers a homily for the conclave’s opening Mass. “Let me speak from the heart for a moment.” The cardinal admits to having doubts about his faith and doubts about the Church.
He surprises further by saying, “We need a pope who accepts doubt.” “Certainty is the great enemy of unity. Certainty is the deadly enemy of tolerance.” “Without doubt, there would be no mystery, and therefore no need for faith.” Cardinal Lawrence concludes by saying, “Let us pray for a pope who has doubts.”
The movie does a respectable job of showing the tensions between the adherents of tradition and those calling for reform in the Church. A worthwhile movie despite Hollywood’s excesses.
Mike Streb
Iowa City
Pray for guidance
To the Editor:
The policy of mass deportation of undocumented immigrants was a significant component of President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign message. Additionally, a key promise was to improve the economy. As Christians, we have a responsibility to pray for guidance when voting because the process of making election decisions is serious.
Whatever the outcome, we accept it within the context of our democracy. However, when we witness wrongdoing, we must not remain silent. Staying silent during the implementation of a mass deportation policy is an act of evil.
John Clayton
Brooklyn
