The Catholic Church in the United States is in danger of losing its relevance if its presentation of the Gospel is alien to the world in which people live.

In April 1962, Archbishop Joseph Rummel of New Orleans not only denied Communion to three Catholics in his archdiocese; he formally excommunicated the three, who vehemently opposed his efforts to desegregate Catholic schools.

And three other ways they can improve their Catholic voting guide before the next election.

Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone and others are acting for the good of souls. As a last resort, they propose denying Communion to people who persistently and publicly promote the grave evil of legal abortion.

Since theological study has moved from the seminary to the university, departments of theology must find creative ways to develop intellectual scholarship within lives of prayer and service.

Catholic institutions can affirm theology’s place by means of concrete hiring practices.