I heard a very interesting comparison the other day -- or perhaps I should say an interesting "contrast". It was in regards to the way in which two different parts of the US government are going about handling their particular situations.

On the one hand, we have NASA. The nation has watched as the mystery behind the horrible tragedy of the Space Shuttle Columbia has unfolded. It seems that every time we turn on a TV, Space Shuttle Program Manager Ron Dittemore is there to tell us what they've discovered. New theories or conjectures, evidence showing that prior theories may have been wrong -- all of it laid out before our eyes as NASA examines the evidence, looking for the truth about the disaster.

On the other hand, we have the Bush Administration. Again the nation watches, as we appear to be on the brink of war. It seems that every time we turn on a TV, there is someone else pontificating on how the US must be prepared to go to war with that crazed madman, Saddam Hussein.

Is all of the evidence and information laid out for us to see? Hardly. Does it appear that the Administration has gathered evidence, examined it thoroughly, and then made a determination as to the best course of action? Not really.

The world watches solemnly as the Bush Administration tries to find evidence to support their conclusion that war is necessary. It appears that we have a case of putting the cart before the horse -- our leaders have decided what is true, and are now looking for evidence to prove it.

It's discouraging to see the openness with which the Columbia tragedy is being handled, compared to the propaganda-like means being employed in regards to a possible war with Iraq.

The purpose of this commentary, however, is not to criticize the Bush Administration. I am merely using these two highly visible situations to illustrate something that we all struggle with, especially in regards to our faith.

I'm sure that most of us have come across situations where Catholics we know say something like, "I'm Catholic, but I don't agree with the Church on such-and-such."

Now on the surface, that may seem fine to most people. I mean, I can be a member of the Democratic or a Republican Party and not agree with everything in the Party platform, right? So the same should hold true in regards to the church to which I belong.

And therein lies the problem.

I am a "member" of a political party.
I am a "part" of the Church.
I am a "part" of the Body of Christ.

Christianity is not about being a member in some sort of club. It's not about shopping around for a denomination that matches my personal feelings on certain issues; nor is it about agreeing to disagree with teachings I don't like.

It's about learning and living God's truth. And it should permeate all aspects of my life. It should guide the way I deal with others at work, at home, and on the street -- not just at Mass on Sunday.

And yes, it should influence the way I vote and the positions I hold regarding public policy and all things political.

"Catholic" is not what I do.
"Catholic" is who I am.

Peace,
Brandon