Episode 2690: True Shepherds or False Prophets

In a world where Church and state often intertwine, the role of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has come under increased scrutiny. Recently, the USCCB has promised to ‘speak loudly’ against policies they perceive as threatening human dignity, particularly in the area of immigration. But as we will explore today, the question is: are these loud voices truly about preserving human dignity, or are they motivated by external influences such as financial ties to government-funded programs? We will delve into the complexities of these concerns and reflect on how we, as Catholics, are called to navigate these turbulent waters.
1. Foundational Truths: The Role of Bishops as Shepherds
The Church calls bishops to be true shepherds of souls, always putting spiritual needs above worldly concerns. As St. Thomas Aquinas reminds us:
‘It is better to be a good shepherd and not a wolf, to show kindness rather than to devour.’
This quote challenges us to reflect on whether some of our bishops have allowed financial interests to influence their public stances, even at the expense of the soul’s true nourishment.
2. Financial Ties to Government Programs
Recent reports show that a significant portion of the USCCB’s revenue, nearly 53%, comes from government sources, particularly related to immigration services. Archbishop Fulton Sheen once warned:
‘When the Church is married to the spirit of the age, she becomes a widow in the next.’

This dependence on government funding raises a serious question: Is the Church becoming too entangled with worldly powers, thereby compromising her prophetic voice?"
3. A Silent Response to Moral Failings
While the USCCB has been vocal on certain political issues, we have seen troubling silence from the bishops on critical moral issues, leaving the faithful to question their commitment to upholding the truth.
St. John Chrysostom famously said:
‘The road to hell is paved with the skulls of erring priests, with bishops as their signposts.’
As shepherds, bishops are called to protect the flock from all threats to faith and morals, regardless of political pressures.
4. Authentic Love for Neighbor or Self-Interest?
The love of neighbor is central to Catholic teaching. St. Teresa of Calcutta taught:
‘If you judge people, you have no time to love them.’
Yet, the promotion of love must be in harmony with truth.
Are the USCCB’s statements on immigration motivated by authentic care for the stranger, or are they influenced by financial and political motivations? Galatians 1:10 reminds us:
‘Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.’
5. The True Calling of the Church: Spiritual Not Political
The Church’s mission is spiritual first. St. Pope Pius X warned:
‘The true friends of the people are neither revolutionaries, nor innovators: they are traditionalists.’
In other words, the Church is not called to become a political entity but to preach the truth of the Gospel. As we evaluate the actions of the USCCB, we must ask: Is their mission being diluted by transient political issues, or are they standing firm on timeless truths?

6. Encouragement for the Faithful
As the faithful, we are called to stand firm in the face of confusion and shifting priorities. St. Athanasius famously said:
‘Even if Catholics faithful to Tradition are reduced to a handful, they are the true Church.’
In these turbulent times, it is essential for us to support our bishops in the way that honors Christ, and to pray that they remain faithful to their true calling as shepherds of souls.
Conclusion:
In today’s reflection, we’ve grappled with the tension between the Church’s role in social justice and the risk of compromising that role due to political and financial influences. Our bishops are called to be true shepherds, guiding the flock in the light of the Gospel, not political agendas. As St. Pope Pius X said:
‘The purpose of the Church is not to construct civil society, but to save souls.’
We must pray for our bishops to remember their sacred calling and for us, as the laity, to continue upholding the truth and supporting the Church in her mission to lead souls to Christ.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
We ask for Your guidance in these times of uncertainty. Protect Your Church from the snares of worldly influence, and grant our bishops the wisdom and courage to always speak and act according to Your will. Help us, the faithful, to remain strong in our commitment to Truth, no matter the challenges we face. Through the intercession of St. Athanasius, St. Pope Pius X, and all the saints, may we be a light in the darkness, holding fast to the authentic teaching of Your Church.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thank you for joining us in this crucial reflection. Let us continue to pray for the Church, for our bishops, and for the wisdom to live out our faith with courage and integrity. Until next time, may God bless you all.