Politicians talk faith at inaugural Catholic prayer breakfast

Published: 2004-04-28

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- An inaugural National Catholic Prayer Breakfast April 28 drew about 1,000 participants to hear politicians talk about the influence of faith in their lives and a cardinal discuss the need to battle the "moral vacuum" of contemporary society. Organizers said the event likely will have raised around $100,000 for the two charities it will benefit, the Religious Sisters of Life and Peter's Pence, Pope John Paul II's private charity. Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., challenged the audience to "do something heroic ... something countercultural," and get closer to God to hear what he wants done. "I believe God speaks in whispers and you will not know what his will is unless you are close (to him)," he said. "He is calling, let me assure you, he is calling." Santorum said many Catholics think living out their faith is simply a matter of "jumping through the hoops" that the church sets out -- such as going to church on Sunday and avoiding mortal sins. "This is not a religion with a check-off. This is one that asks you to live a life of sacrifice for Our Lord."

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