Dear pastor: STFU

I'm getting really tired of this genre of story.  Prominent politician takes a stand on a controversial issue; media finds his pastor and sees if the two disagree; reporter casts issue as a "church-state" conflict.

Friends, fifty years ago, we actually needed a presidential candidate to say this:

"I am not the Catholic candidate for President. I am the Democratic Party's candidate for President who also happens to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my Church on public matters — and the Church does not speak for me." 

That statement still stands (at least for most Democrats).  Have we really made so little progress?

And by the way, if you like poking your nose in politics, Reverend, run for office.  Otherwise, get back to your shepherding.