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Obama names delegation to Pope’s inaugural Mass

CWN - March 18, 2013

President Barack Obama has announced that Vice President Joseph Biden will lead the US delegation to the Mass inaugurating Pope Francis’s Petrine ministry.

Other members of the delegation are Gov. Susana Martinez (R-NM), Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and President John DeGioia of Georgetown University.

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  • Posted by: jg23753479 - Mar. 19, 2013 7:43 AM ET USA

    It would be difficult to refuse these public sinners communion. Francis could not know for sure that they didn't stop by a confessional after arrival in Rome, for example. But most of us assume they did not and, as we watch them at Mass, should remember St Paul's words about those who receive in an unworthy spiritual state. For those who understand, it is like watching someone jump off the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Posted by: unum - Mar. 18, 2013 9:02 PM ET USA

    The American delegation is an insult to the American Catholic laity due to the inclusion of Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi, and Joe DeGioia. Each, in their own way, has undermined the teaching of the Church in America and given scandal to the faithful. President Obama clearly is not looking for as close a relationship with the Church as he is seeking with the representatives of Islam.

  • Posted by: Dan - Mar. 18, 2013 6:56 PM ET USA

    What a surprise! President Obama provokes Pope Francis at the moment of his installation. His entire administration has been a litany of provocation targeted toward faithful Catholics. He has largely succeeded at elevating and legitimizing an "alternative magisterium" for Catholics who describe themselves variously as "liberal" or "progressive" or (without irony) "thinking", and his success can be attributed to the pusillanimity of the American bishops.

  • Posted by: AgnesDay - Mar. 18, 2013 2:37 PM ET USA

    Fascinating choice, indeed. It will be interesting to see how the Holy Father responds to what is obviously a challenge from the Obama administration. It is a comfort to know he is a Jesuit to the core and understands the workings of power.

  • Posted by: jacquebquique5708 - Mar. 18, 2013 11:22 AM ET USA

    It is very telling that DeGioia of GT is "running with the wolves". I would hope that the Pope would refuse to give Communion to Biden and Pelosi.

  • Posted by: FidelityUnity - Mar. 18, 2013 11:02 AM ET USA

    Appointing VP Biden and Nancy Pelosi as U.S. reps to attend the Inauguration Mass appears to be a slap in the face based upon their believes and votes on abortion and gay marraige. I hope they don't receive communion based on their positions and their intentions not to change.

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