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Tuesday, March 19, 2024
The Observer

Eucharist comic was blasphemous

I hope that I am not the only student at this fine institution who took offense at the blasphemous cartoon published in this paper on Friday, Feb. 23 ridiculing the institution of the Eucharist. As this is a Catholic institution, all of its organs should point to the truth, and this paper should be no different. Whilst debate about the real presence is an acceptable item of debate, it is not an acceptable item of ridicule. The author of this cartoon should know if he is not Catholic that his ridicule is not appreciated nor is it furthering a respectful dialogue. If the author is Catholic, he should pay heed to the Catechism: "2148 Blasphemy is directly opposed to the second commandment. It consists in uttering against God - inwardly or outwardly - words of hatred, reproach, or defiance; in speaking ill of God; in failing in respect toward him in one's speech; in misusing God's name." St. James condemns those "who blaspheme that honorable name [of Jesus] by which you are called." 78: "The prohibition of blasphemy extends to language against Christ's Church, the saints and sacred things." I hope that this paper will respect He whose mother is our Mother and Notre Dame.

Erik Bootsma

graduate student

off campus

Feb. 24