Biden and Communion
A few months, at my former blog home, I wrote that Senator Biden should be actively denied Eucharist at Catholic Masses for his more than 3 decades of support for legalized abortion on demand. Well, today, who should appear at Mass at Saint Ann's but the Senator himself? (Only five minutes before Communion, I might add.)
As luck would have it, I ended up having to fill in as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion as most of those scheduled did not show up. I ended up with the Blood of Christ on the side of the Church where the Senator was standing. I was tempted to deny him if the opportunity came up, but I would have resisted that urge as the Bishop has told us that it is his judgment alone that matters. Ultimately, the Senator received the Body from the priest, but passed by the Blood.
I respectfully disagree with Bishop Saltareli's decision in this case, but will abide by it if the decision presents itself in the future.
Comments
I know you've been staunchly critical of the war, Paul, but I have a question. The Catholic Church has come OUT against the war in Iraq. Are those who are pro-Iraq War to be denied Communion as well? No flaming, sarcastic rhetoric here...just an honest question, believe it or not.
Posted by: Mike M. | July 17, 2006 12:09 PM
I'll give you a fuller answer later. It will take a little longer to explain than I have time for right now. Maybe tonight or tomorrow.
Quick answer: no, because there's a fundamental difference between abortion and war. War is sometimes necessary/acceptable (Just War Theory); abortion never is.
Posted by: Paul Smith | July 17, 2006 1:55 PM
Yes, but I'm talking specifically of THIS war. The Catholic Church has come out stanchly against THIS war. Should Catholics who support this war not accept communion?
I look forward to your response.
Posted by: Mike M. | July 17, 2006 10:56 PM