While Notre Dame has yet to rescind its invitation to President Obama, Bishop Myers adds his voice to the chorus of criticism regarding the university's decision to honor the president at its commencement. States Archbishop Myers:
"When we extend honors to people who do not share our respect and reverence for life in all stages, and give them a prominent stage in our parishes, schools and other institutions, we unfortunately create the perception that we endorse their public positions on these issues. We cannot justify such actions, and the Bishops have stated so clearly and strongly."
Here, the archbishop is referring to the USCCB statement, "Catholics in Political Life," which opposes the honoring of public figures "who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions. "
Postscript: The Cardinal Newman Society, the Catholic group leading the petition campaign against Notre Dame's decision to honor the president at its commencement, announced that more bishops have supported their effort and that it now has 230,000 signatures for the petition.
The National Catholic Register also passed on the proposal of one Notre Dame alum suggesting that the university rescind its decision to given an honorary degree to the president. This could be the middle way, as it would be difficult to disinvite him at this point.
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