Reply #11: Jesuits are very liberal

[Dave Sund]

compared to the rest of the church... but they also aren't a part of the official hierarchy of the church (i.e., there aren't any Jesuit bishops or Cardinals that I know of.)

Every Jesuit I've ever encountered seemed like a tolerant, peaceful individual. I credit four years at a Jesuit High School in Omaha for opening my eyes to what's really going on in the world. They are people who encourage debate and discussion and critical thought, even on issues of dogma. They don't ever presume to tell you what to believe, but rather allow you to form your own beliefs. I have much respect for them.

The Catholic Church in its present form is far more tolerant than it used to be. It's got a long way to go, yes. But I'd say that there has been quite a bit of progress over the past 50 years.