With John Gormley happily setting down limits on when religious believers can and can't enter the public arena, it's worthwhile to have a look at what Pope Benedict told the American bishops on this score in 2008.

"As preachers of the Gospel and leaders of the Catholic community, you are also called to participate in the exchange of ideas in the public square, helping to shape cultural attitudes. In a context where free speech is valued, and where vigorous and honest debate is encouraged, yours is a respected voice that has much to offer to discussion of the pressing social and moral questions of the day. By ensuring that the Gospel is clearly heard, you not only form the people of your own community, but in view of the global reach of mass communication, you help to spread the message of Christian hope throughout the world.

"Clearly the Church’s influence on public debate takes place on many different levels. In the U.S., as elsewhere, there is much current and proposed legislation that gives cause of concern from the point of view of morality, and the Catholic community, under your guidance, needs to offer a clear and united witness on such matters. Even more important, though, is the gradual opening of the minds of hearts of the wider community to moral truth. Here much remains to be done. Crucial in this regard is the role of the lay faithful to act as “leaven” in society. Yet it cannot be assumed that all Catholic citizens think in harmony with the Church’s teaching on today’s key ethical questions. Once again, it falls to you to ensure that the moral formation provided at every level of ecclesial life reflects the authentic teaching of the Gospel of life."