Send in the clowns

Government programs for the poor, old, sick, and disabled have been targeted or slashed by Congress in the recent months. This comes as many at the bottom of the economic ladder are still trying to recover from the worst recession since the 1930's. Unemployment levels for adults under age 30 are at record levels. By every conceivable measure, the poor have gotten poorer and the rich have gotten richer over the past decade. 

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops had decided to weigh in on this ethical morass. They see an exemption for contraception to be so important that it should be attached to every bill to continue funding the government and avoid catastrophic default. Here is an excerpt from their letter to all 535 representatives in the House and Senate.

We have already urged you to enact the Health Care Conscience Rights Act (H.R. 940/S. 1204). As Congress considers a Continuing Resolution and debt ceiling bill in the days to come, we reaffirm the vital importance of incorporating the policy of this bill into such “must-pass” legislation.

The most pressing issue of conscience of our day is contraception according to this band of Christian leaders. A verse from Stephen Sondheim's "Send in the Clowns" seems particularly apt.

Don't you love farce?
My fault I fear.
I thought that you'd want what I want.
Sorry, my dear.
But where are the clowns?
Quick, send in the clowns.
Don't bother, they're here. 

The body of Christ is not being served by these clowns.