'via Blog this'
Santorum is not alone. Everyone does it. They confuse spirituality which is individual and religion which is institutional. They say religion should be in the public square. They mean that the teachings of the institution they are a part of should dominate us all. Everyone is spiritual. We were made with values within us waiting to be accepted and acted on. Individuals in the public square bring with then their inner spirituality, whatever it may be. To the extent that religion informs, it they have influence. But spirituality based on inner values transcends all religion. The universal ontological values are helpfulness, democracy. tolerance and non-idolatry. The public square is hardly devoid of spirituality. Sadly Santorum believes religion should dominate. And that everyone but those who disagree with his religion is a person of nonfaith. He is not alone. This misunderstanding hobbles our society even though most people are at least aware of the distinction between religion and spirituality. Santorum belongs in a monastery, not trying to turn religion into public policy.
