Newly released documents show that the FBI's surveillance of traditionalist Catholic communities was more widespread than previously admitted. The controversial 2023 memo, which alleged that "radical-traditionalist Catholics" could be recruitment pools for extremists, was circulated among multiple FBI divisions. The memo suggested using informants within Latin Mass congregations and monitoring online Catholic content. Internal records confirm that the memo was reviewed and endorsed by at least four other FBI field offices, indicating a coordinated effort. A second draft memo aimed to institutionalize suspicion towards traditional Catholic communities.
22 days ago
Newly released documents reveal that the FBI's surveillance of traditionalist Catholic communities was more extensive and coordinated than initially acknowledged 1 2. The controversial 2023 memo from the Richmond field office, which targeted so-called "radical traditionalist Catholics," was not an isolated incident 1 2.
The Richmond memo alleged that "radical-traditionalist Catholics" could be potential recruits for racially motivated extremists 1. It suggested using informants and monitoring online content 1. Internal records confirm that the memo was reviewed and endorsed by at least four other FBI field offices 1 2. A second draft memo, the Strategic Perspective Executive Analytical Report (SPEAR), was prepared for broader circulation 2.
After the memo became public, the FBI announced its withdrawal, but emails suggest an attempt to delete the memo and access logs 1. The memo categorized traditional Catholic observance as a potential domestic extremism indicator 1.
Internal emails reveal that some FBI agents voiced concerns about using SPLC data to profile religious groups 1 2. Senator Chuck Grassley has accused the FBI of misleading Congress and obstructing oversight 1 2. Critics argue that the FBI's focus on traditionalist Catholics raises concerns about religious freedom and potential overreach 2.
The FBI maintains that investigations are not based on religious affiliation alone 1. Members of Congress have called for the full release of all FBI records on the matter 1. The debate has expanded to the broader architecture of federal oversight and respect for religious liberty 2.
The Church defines legitimate authority and its limits.
The Catholic Church defines legitimate authority as that which is exercised for the common good and employs morally acceptable means . This authority is not absolute but is limited by its purpose, which is to serve the common good, and by the moral law .
Here's a breakdown of the Church's teachings on legitimate authority and its limits:
In summary, legitimate authority, as understood by the Catholic Church, is a moral power to be exercised in service of the common good, with intrinsic limits defined by human rights, the moral law, and the principle of subsidiarity.