Daily Links, April 19: Bishops, budget, belief, 'Bama

We're into the Easter season as we await Pentacost--but as Catholics do we place too much emphasis on Lent [1] and not enough on the 50 days of Easter?

There's been plenty of back and forth lately between the bishops and some prominent Catholic politicians. John Boehner [2] and Paul Ryan [3] have both rejected a statement [4] from the bishops urging them to protect the poor in the federal budget.

In other bishop news, Cardinal Dolan was named to TIME's 100 Most Influential People list [5]. Perhaps he can use some of that influence and respond to Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro's request [6] for him to speak out against the budget.

And, Peoria bishop Daniel Jenky is coming under fire for remarks given in his homily [7] last weekend--a complaint has been lodged with the IRS [8], claiming that Jenky more or less urged people to vote against President Obama in this year's election.

More on the "renewal" of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious [9] from Bryan Cones.

Apparently belief in God is highest [10] in places that are developing countries, or places that are Catholic (or, like the Philippines--both!).

Alabama appears to missing an opportunity [11] to repeal their harsh immigration law passed last year. For more on how this law has affected families, check out our March issue [12].

This year's tax season has come and gone, but maybe next year you can use Ignatian reflection [13] to help you through filing your taxes!