<<http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/news/local/7232708.htm>>
Catholic pols scrutinized by bishops Mull possible sanctions for anti-church stands By MICHAEL PAULSON Boston Globe WASHINGTON - Frustrated that so many Catholic politicians support abortion rights, the bishops of the United States said yesterday they will begin evaluating whether they can impose sanctions against elected officials who vote contrary to church teachings. In a freewheeling discussion reflecting years of concern, some bishops suggested that the church should consider punishments ranging from denying honorary degrees to elected officials, refusing to allow them to speak at Catholic institutions, or even excommunicating them. "I am tired of hearing Catholic politicians say, 'I am personally opposed to whatever, but I can't impose my moral judgment on others,' " said Bishop Joseph A. Galante of Dallas. "That's nonsense. They do it on other issues...That's a weaseling out." The bishops said they were prompted to act by a document issued in January by Pope John Paul II. That document outlined the responsibilities of Catholics actively involved in politics. Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, the archbishop of Washington, suggested that the bishops examine how to deal with Catholic politicians who do not heed the Vatican's urgings. No names were mentioned, but some Catholics have long lamented the support for abortion rights voiced by Massachusetts Sens. Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry, both Catholics. In January, after the pope's statement was issued, both men cited church-state separation as their guiding principle. Kerry, who is running for president, declared at the time: "As a Catholic, I have enormous respect for the words and teachings of the Vatican, but as a public servant I've never forgotten the lasting legacy of President Kennedy, who made clear that in accordance with the separation of church and state, no elected official should be 'limited or conditioned by any religious oath, ritual, or obligation.' " _______________________________________________ http://www.mccmedia.com/mailman/listinfo/brin-l
