Religious Freedom

        Traditionally in the US, there has been a separation between Church and State. However, increasingly in our society this separation have become less defined and in many cases crosses over causing people to question the morality in issues such as abortion, gay marriage, and birth control. In recent elections, religious views have become a factor for voters to consider. Personally, I have not heard much opposing these changes until recently at home. I have also come across a view articles on the internet, however they are not nearly as in-depth as we have covered the topic in class from the USCCB and America Magazine regarding birth control and the HHS mandate. The HHS mandate will force all institutions even religious to supply birth control to their employees.  I am opposed to this mandate because this mandate restricts the Catholic’s religious freedom. Although people might not agree with the Catholic teachings, this mandate is like someone marching into someone’s home and ordering that the person changes his or her furniture, wall paper, and moral values.  Furthermore, birth control is not necessary for people’s immediate health (people should also have the ability to exercise self-control). Although some people might night the pill to regulate their cycles, perhaps doctors should make a distinction between the purposes for the pill. For the time being, we can only wait to find out how the Church will react to this mandate.