On further investigation, Limbaugh learned that some of the monies go to EMBRYONIC stem cell research (which kills living embryos in the process). Did the Bishop know that?
The Catholic Church has taken some public hits during the past weeks, after several bishops spoke against the Ice Bucket Challenge. Their opposition was based upon where donations were typically sent: the ALS Association. As the bishops (and now Limbaugh) have noted, that organization sometimes funds research using embryonic stem cells. Here at CAF we have had a few discussion threads regarding this.
The various bishops have recommended donating to a research organization which does not use ESC. The John Paul II Medical Research Institute has been often suggested. I am gladdened that Bishop Zubik has personally demonstrated that participation in the Ice Bucket Challenge is acceptable to Catholics. We are opposed to ESC, but we are also opposed to ALS.
Here is a news article which mentions the bishop’s perspective.
Bishop Zubik pointed to the witness of Pope Francis, who has noted the importance of taking the faith to the marketplace. In this case, to something that has been a fad to this point.
“I think it is a privilege to be able to connect the dots,” he said. “To connect Jesus to what we’re doing here, and to see so many people receptive to all that as well, too.”
Prior to the challenge, the bishop celebrated a Mass with a standing-room congregation.
He said the challenge was more than a ritual of a bucket and ice, but as disciples of Christ the water represented Jesus coming into our hearts. And just as the symbolism does not end at baptism, the same held true for them that day.
The symbolism of water tells us that we are not alone and that Jesus is with us, Bishop Zubik noted, and that we are called to share Jesus with others. We are called to share our love for those in need through our words and deeds. “If we’re seeking to make sure the world revolves around us, we better change and change fast,” he said.
Most people are not comfortable with having ice water thrown on them, the bishop said, and he noted that he is careful about his own appearance. But he said that we have to muster the courage to reach out of our comfort zone and help others.
“We need to step outside ourselves and be uncomfortable,” he said.
pittsburghcatholic.org/newsarticles_more.php?id=4011
In addition to Bishop Zubik, Father Colamarino, who serves as pastor of St. Joseph in Duquesne, was also doused. Fr. Colamarino has been battling ALS for more than a year.
