The editorial cartoon didn’t have to be in print long to create some push back.
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The cartoon, drawn by a Pittsburgh Post Gazette editorial cartoonist, depicts a caricature of Pope Benedict XVI tweeting, and stating he can use modern technology to promote what may be viewed by some as old-fashioned or traditional Catholic views. The cartoon is pictured here.
The news value is pretty simple – the Pope will begin tweeting on Wednesday, December 12.
One person wrote questioning whether we’d print a similar cartoon featuring Islam or Allah. The answer is yes, as well we would print one featuring Judaism.
One caller accused us of spreading lies.
As Sam Stockard, senior editor, says, the opinion page is an equal opportunity critic.
I myself as a Christian was offended by this cartoon, but I cannot deny the irony in the Pope using modern communication tools while still interfering in the bedroom and leading a church that doesn’t allow women in its senior leadership roles.
Like it or not, contraception, women’s rights, and gay marriage are key social issues of the day and the church is a key part of those issues.
The cartoon does make one stop and think if you get over your initial shock as a Christian. It raises the question – should Christians reevaluate their stances on the issues raised in the cartoon?
My thoughts are simple. There are reasons that the Bible makes the stances it does on various social issues. There is nothing wrong with revisiting those stances and arguments – pro or con. Such an evaluation can reinforce one’s beliefs and give you better understanding as to why you believe what you believe.
It may also cause you to reconsider some things.
Both can be good for you.
Christians, Republicans, Democrats, Muslims, Jews, and any other group that adheres to strong sets of values should not fear having those values challenged. Nor should they fear reevaluation of how they themselves feel about their faith’s or organization’s views on said issues.
Invoking thought is the purpose of the opinion page. It has the job, either through columns, editorials, letters or cartoons, to stimulate discussion. However, before that discussion can take place, thought must take place.
Our goal is never to offend, yet occasional offense is an unfortunate consequence of a vigorous opinion page.
