Bishop criticizes Catholic politician who flip-flops on abortion

February 20, 2014

Bishop Richard Malone of Buffalo has publicly criticized a Catholic state senator for abandoning his pro-life position.

“When I first arrived in Buffalo, I was encouraged to learn of Senator [Timothy] Kennedy’s pro-life position,” he said. “Today, I am extremely disappointed and deeply concerned about his turnaround on this most critical issue, the protection of pre-born human life.”

Kennedy (who is not related to the Massachusetts-based Kennedy clan) said that although his position on abortion has "evolved," he continues to cherish the Catholic faith and is raising his children as Catholics. Bishop Malone took issue with that claim.

“For anyone to say that he or she is a faithful Catholic and to be pro-abortion/pro-choice rights is totally inconsistent with Catholic teaching,” he added. “Practicing Catholics who claim they are nurturing their children in the faith must teach their children that abortion is intrinsically evil, that human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his or her existence, a human being must be recognized as having the rights of a person, among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life.”

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Statement of Most Reverend Richard J. Malone (Diocese of Buffalo)
• Kennedy’s flip to pro-choice on abortion issue draws ire of Buffalo bishop (Buffalo News)