McCann’s vital, painful step

I write in support of Rob McCann, chief executive of Catholic Charities for the past 15 years. In my humble opinion, he has been Christ’s representative on the streets of Spokane, caring deeply and providing for the displaced, the marginalized and the homeless.

As a cradle-to-grave Catholic and product of white privilege, I know of no more committed individual to Catholic teaching than Mr. McCann. His embrace of a painful discussion of race as a shortcoming of Catholic history is a necessary and positive step towards reconciliation; this discussion should be welcomed by the faithful as an opportunity to actively participate in Christ’s teachings in this community.

The report that his efforts were met with hostility, defensiveness and attack on his family is unconscionable and reprehensible. The Catholic Church is sufficiently resilient to withstand a full examination of conscience on this subject; Bishop Daly should be at the forefront of leading that examination, not attacking the messenger.

“But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” Amos 5:24.

Cheryl D. Kingen

Spokane