As Obama's invitation to speak at the University of Notre Dame continues to draw criticism and headlines, Pennsylvania's outspoken Bishop Joseph F. Martino of the Diocese of Scranton slammed the choice of commencement speaker at another Catholic school.
Martino regrets the decision by King's College in Wilkes-Barre for to host Sen. Bob Casey Jr. as graduation speaker May 17. The bishop is upset with Casey's recent vote to confirm Gov. Kathleen Sebelius as U.S. secretary of Health & Human Services -- which he called "an affront to all who value the sanctity of human life."
Sebelius, a Catholic, has been criticized by abortion opponents for receiving campaign contributions from a doctor who performed late-term abortions and for her support for abortion rights, among other things.
Casey spokesman Larry Smar told the AP the senator believed it would be irresponsible to leave the health position vacant.
"He disagrees with her on abortion, but feels that she has the required expertise to help pass health care reform and provide health care to the uninsured - one of our country's top priorities," Smar said. He also said Casey has been criticized by his own party for his anti-abortion position.
After Casey's vote, Martino went so far as to suggest he might consider barring Casey from receiving Communion in his diocese: "If necessary, future determinations will be made regarding whether Sen. Casey is worthy to receive Holy Communion."
In his statement, Martino did acknowledge the decision to invite Casey was made at King's College prior to the Sebelius vote.
"Now, however," the bishop said, "it is truly unfortunate that this Catholic institution will be seen as providing a forum for a politician who is steadily distancing himself from pro-life principles and, sadly, from his father's legacy as a statesman who championed the rights of the unborn."
Read about local reaction re Obama at Notre Dame.
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