By Michael Paulson and Patrick Healy, Globe Staff | July 26, 2004In a break from past practice, the Democratic Party is not inviting the archbishop of Boston to offer a blessing at the Democratic National Convention, but instead is inviting a Paulist priest who has taken Senator John F. Kerry's side in a national debate over whether politicians who support abortion rights should receive Communion.
There are plenty of religious leaders – pro-life and pro-choice – who understand that the issue of abortion should not divide people of faith. It is unfortunate that some Catholic leaders have chosen this one issue as a litmus test. George W. Bush wages pre-emptive war, opposes programs to help people lift themselves out of poverty, and supports efforts to put corporate profits before the welfare of the environment. The scorecard is clear: John Kerry is a person of good faith who deserves the backing of religious voters. As a Christian, I can make that statement with integrity.
For more information on this issue visit:
Bishop Raymond Burke: Anti-Choice, Anti-Gay
