I use the contemporary version of Matthew 7-16 in my title because in the world of politics, usually far removed from the Bible, two useful illustrations of the wisdom of St. Matthew have arisen. First, there was total and unflinching honesty of Jacob Rees-Mogg MP who made clear when questioned that he was opposed to abortion under any circumstances. and also that he was against homosexual marriage. Now, you might agree or disagree with his opinions but you cannot gainsay his courage in saying this, as a practicing politician, in the current social mood.
Then we can turn, more or less reluctantly according to taste, to Jeremy Corbyn MP who recently attended the Catholic funeral of a Trade Union leader during which this 'born again' atheist, or possibly agnostic, actually queued with his Catholic wife to take wine and wafers as part of the Holy Communion. Make of that what you will but either way it confirms to me that the old scoundrel is a lying-liar and a humbug. Why am I not surprised?!
Catholics are normally very strict about only communicants receiving the sacraments. This really surprises me that he wasn't turned away.
Catholics (and Eastern Orthodox Christians) have a strict law that only people who are in communion with the Church can receive Holy Communion. In other words, only those who are united in the same beliefs — the seven sacraments, the authority of the pope, and the teachings in the Catechism of the Catholic Church — are allowed to receive Holy Communion.
http://www.dummies.com/religion/christianity/catholicism/can-receive-holy-communion-catholic-church/
Posted by: Whyaxye | Thursday, 07 September 2017 at 21:04
You are quite right, W, and I apologise for not adding the link to the story which I have now rectified. It's from the DT but it is also reported in the New Statesman!
Posted by: David Duff | Thursday, 07 September 2017 at 21:21
"Why am I not surprised?!"
Just a guess, but because you would assume that in any circumstance?
Posted by: Bob | Thursday, 07 September 2017 at 21:52
No, Bob, because the thrice married man has never in his entire political career ever exhibited even a trace of Catholicism.
Posted by: David Duff | Friday, 08 September 2017 at 08:23
Maybe Corbyn is a Cafeteria Catholic?
Posted by: Whitewall | Friday, 08 September 2017 at 12:14
Sounds like Pelosi and Biden. Both should be refused communion but the Church just looks the other way.
Posted by: missred | Friday, 08 September 2017 at 12:55