Is it fair to criticize those euphoric over the Saints; especially Christians?

OK, let's get this out of the way early before the Super Bowl hype gets to be too crazy.

A couple of folks have commented to me, and in other circles, that there is too much of a love affair with the Saints championship and subsequent Super Bowl appearance among devout Christians, including members of the clergy. I believe, from what I can ascertain, that the theory being promoted is that all this excitement over the Saints is such a waste of time. After all, should we not be more excited over all things God?

Why are churches playing "When the Saints Go Marching In" at the end of Mass? Why do certain Catholic priests wear Saints jerseys under their vestments? How about the Bishop in New Orleans calling the Body of Christ the Who Dat Nation?

The complaint continues; this is all too much.

Here is my measured Catholic, ordained ministers response: GET REAL; PLEASE GET REAL.

If we can forgive and overlook so much in our faithful Christian tradition you mean to tell me we can't understand the excitement of long suffering Saints fans in this most historic time. And please don't sell short the love Saints fans have for God or His Church, just because they love a team that is as much of their local culture as, well, as their catholicism.

I'm not comparing the Saints or the Super Bowl to our faith life. You see excited Saints fans that are Christian, particularly faithful Catholics, know the difference. For those of you who, for whatever unexplicable reason, don't care about the Saints in the Super Bowl; it's o.k. for God still loves you. And He loves those faithful who are nuts over the Saints.

Another piece of advice: DO NOT use the love for the Saints as some sort of litmus test to gauge faithful Christians' love for God.

This is a fun, exciting thing that a sports fan can enjoy. Get over yourself if you can't understand.

And remember; for everything there is a season under the Heavens; which includes a time to laugh, a time to dance, a time to embrace, and apparently; a time for the Saints to be in the Super Bowl.

Geaux Saints and Saints fan: enjoy every minute of this!!!