PAPACY IN POLITICS

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Apr 15, 1897

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 23, No. 15.

PAPACY IN POLITICS.

Rome’s Hand in the Administration.

It was a surprise to many when Archbishop Ireland last autumn threw his influence, contrary to what seemed to be the principles of his church, in favor of the Republican party. But recent developments indicate the reason of the “policy” that “shall cause craft to prosper” (Dan. 8:25), a matter in which the papal church has become skilled. The Thrice-a-Week World of March 29, in its Washington news from a staff correspondent, has the following:—

“WASHINGTON, March 28. Archbishop Ireland’s long sojourn in Washington, and his numerous conferences with the President and various Cabinet officers, have aroused much curiosity. The reason of this activity is now known. Behind the angry controversy that has recently excited the Catholic Church is a game of international politics.

“When the archbishop was called to Canton in December last, Mr. McKinley asked him what could be done to reward his services in the campaign. The archbishop requested that the ambassador to Italy should be a man favorable to his ideas. This was promised on condition that the person selected and backed by him should have the support of his State delegation.

“Former Governor Merriam was first chosen. Senator Cushman K. Davis opposed him. Then Governor Hubbard was selected, but he also lacked the support of his State. During the past week President McKinley suggested to the archbishop that General Draper, of Massachusetts, had the warm indorsement of his State delegation and was acceptable to the administration, and if he and Archbishop Ireland could agree, the appointment would be made.

“Negotiations were immediately opened between the prelate and the diplomat, with the result that a cordial agreement was effected, and the President so advised. . . .

“Another direction in which Archbishop Ireland has achieved unlocked-for success is in the matter of the appointment of Bellamy Storer as Assistant Secretary of State. It is said now that the archbishop has brought about a cordial understanding between that gentleman and Senator Foraker.”

But Rome does not “meddle” in political matters. O, no! This is only the beginning of the end. The so-called Protestant churches have opened the way, and indorsed the principle of a union of Church and State, church dictation in the affairs of government. Why should not the papal church, skilled by 1,500 years of practice, take a hand? And she will take it too.

It will be of interest to know how King Humbert will take to the minister to his government chosen by the agent of that church which is so bitterly opposed to him.