text: I agree that Pope Francis has never promoted anything other than Catholic teaching. And, yes, it is, ultimately, about implementation. But the "gentler" approach isn't really about gentleness so much as emphasis.
  
  Some bishops have, perhaps unintentionally, reduced their focus down to a few issues, like abortion, gay marriage, etc. They are the ones who -- fairly or not -- are perceived as culture warriors. Francis' approach is to emphasize the principles behind the teachings, such as respect for life, the inviolability of human dignity, the importance of living simply, etc. His conviction (with which I agree) is that if the conversation is more about these things than single, contentious issues, more people will choose to engage in it.
  
  There was a time when the USCCB was defined by what they were for. Today they are defined more by what they are against. I'd just like to see the conference do a course correction back to the way it once was, when they were listened to and respected.