The most senior Catholic Bishops in Australia have intervened in the federal election. They warned Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten not to undermine traditional marriage in a statement that threatens to reignite tensions inside the Coalition government. The statement says, “political decisions” can damage the institution of marriage and hurt families.
Labor has promised to legalize same sex marriage within 100 days if it is elected. But Prime Minister Turnbull has promised to hold a plebiscite if the Liberals are re-elected.
The Catholic Church rarely intervenes publically in federal politics. But the letter, which has been distributed to bishops, priests, dioceses, parishes, schools and Catholic work places across the country, represents what the church would like its 5.4 million Catholic members in Australia to consider when they vote.
Neither party promised to maintain the status quo. “Support for marriage and the family does not look a big vote-winner, so that even the most basic human institution, upon which the health of a society depends, can become part of the throwaway culture or at best an optional extra.”
So far, neither party has rarely discussed the issue during the 2016 campaign. But the Bishops statement will likely prompt renewed discussion of the issue during the election campaign, and perhaps open the door for a change in the law.
The bishop’s statement also raised the plight of asylum seekers, the mentally ill, indigenous Australians, the elderly, sex abuse survivors, unborn babies who are “defenseless”, the environment and highlights the dangers of focusing on economic management at the expense of human beings.
The Catholic Church is increasingly engaging in political matters openly and behind-the-scenes, despite rhetoric that claims otherwise.
The Roman Church is far-reaching in her plans and modes of operation. She is employing every device to extend her influence and increase her power in preparation for a fierce and determined conflict to regain control of the world, to re-establish persecution, and to undo all that Protestantism has done. Catholicism is gaining ground upon every side. The Great Controversy, pages 565-566