Seamless Garment Catholicism and the GOP--brothers from another mother?

Donald McClarey is (rightly) dispirited by the latest Back-to-the-Future Bernardin sent to water down the American episcopal bench. I believe it was the esteemed John Allen who said that the Pope was simply trying to bring "balance" to the world of Catholic bishops. Which, admittedly, would be a compelling argument if, say, there were any conservative appointments to the progressive episcopates in Belgium, Holland or Hunland. Don't hold your breath waiting for that, though.

However, that's not my main point.

My main point is to note the remarkable similarity between the mindset--and, yes, even language--between the GOP leadership and seamless garment Catholics.

Namely, that both are willing to give you fine-sounding words on life issues even as they ensure that no concrete action will ever be taken to change the legal landscape. 

Hearts and minds have to change, you guys! Lather, rinse, repeat.

As I said in Don's thread:

Oh, come on now, Don–the Pope says plenty of fine sounding words on life. It’s just that when the rubber hits the road, he tosses you a bunch of Bernardins who undercut your efforts. In other words, if you want lip service, he’ll give it to you. But if you want action…well, that would send the wrong message to the wider world. Have to meet people where they are, and all that. In fact, he’s a lot like the GOP in that respect.

Harsh? Probably. But in all honesty, what's the difference? If you can support post-birth abortion and still receive the body and blood of Christ with the full approval of your local shepherd on Sunday, then the GOP's hypocrisy on the issue, while sick-making, is placed in a little context.

Of course, that sends a huge signal that Catholic social teaching is equally disposable, but apparently, that's OK too.

21st Century Catholicism: She's Like Sybil, Only Less Coherent.