Interviewer: Many faithful Catholics don’t understand why a bishop, a priest, or a cardinal would be afraid of having things said about them in the mass media. Many Catholics think, Who cares? Let them say what they want.
Bishop Athanasius Schneider: Yes. But in reality, when a cardinal or bishop speaks clearly on a topic, even respectfully and politely, there will immediately be a campaign against him. They will find reasons, even false ones, and spread them worldwide. For example, they might claim he had hidden a pedophile priest, which may not be true, but the damage is done. By the time the truth comes out, the image and reputation of the priest, bishop, or cardinal are already destroyed.
These media campaigns are run by professional liars, and the bishops and cardinals know this. But why are they afraid? They are afraid that they may lose their office or position. They won’t lose their soul, but they might lose their bishopric or cardinalate for a few years.
Consider this: a bishop might govern for five more years, perhaps ten, if he is 65. But eternity is coming. What is the comparison: ten years of governing a diocese or being a cardinal versus eternity?
This is exactly what St. Thomas More faced. You know the story: his wife said, “Oh yes, you can sign and then get out. You can keep your convictions in your heart, just sign pro forma.” And he replied, “How many years would I live after coming out of prison?” She answered, “At least twenty years, perhaps.” He said, “But twenty years and eternity, what comparison is that? That is no good business.”