Catholics Are Asking for Bread, Receiving Stones

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus asks, "Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give a stone?" I have been turning that question over in my head lately as I consider the recent behavior of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. These are men who trace their authority back to Peter, whom Jesus commanded to "feed my sheep." But lately many in the conference have been feeding us on stones rather than bread.