Putting a religious faith through a particular political
ideology can be regarded as artificial because the transcendent is not limited
to the confines of particular ideologies.
Were it otherwise, the transcendent would not go beyond the limits of human
cognition, perception, and sensibility. Leaders of religious organizations
should thus be particularly careful lest they inadvertently cut transcendence
short. Practically speaking, that some members could feel marginalized or leave
the organization altogether is a capricious cost that can be avoided. In other
words, according to religious criteria, no
reason would exist for such marginalization or departures. Unfortunately,
religious leaders can easily dismiss this drawback out of a desire to channel
the religious through their particular ideologies. I suppose this is a form of
idolatry.
The full essay is at "American Catholicism and Political Ideology."
This book may be helpful for tips on how to sidestep the political: Spiritual Leadership in Business. See also Christianized Ethical Leadership.
This book may be helpful for tips on how to sidestep the political: Spiritual Leadership in Business. See also Christianized Ethical Leadership.