Rhode Island bishop declines invitation to attend inauguration of pro-abortion governor
January 06, 2015
Bishop Thomas Tobin of Providence, Rhode Island, has declined an invitation to participate in the inauguration of incoming Governor Gina Raimondo, citing the politician’s support for legal abortion.
Bishop Tobin said that he was unavailable at the time of the inauguration ceremony, since he had already made plans to celebrate Mass for Rhode Island and its public officials. However, he told the Providence Journal:
I should add, though, that in conscience, it would always be a problem for me personally to attend the inauguration of any public official who promotes or supports abortion, which we consider to be a very grave moral evil.
Bishop Tobin said that despite his serious disagreement with Raimondo regarding the sanctity of human life, he has had friendly exchanges with the governor-elect and hopes for a productive working relationship.
Raimondo, who is Catholic, has announced plans to attend morning Mass at her parish church on the day of her inauguration.
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Posted by: Minnesota Mary -
Jan. 07, 2015 2:12 AM ET USA
Good Bishop Tobin should have taken his remarks further and informed Raimondo that she should not present herself for Communion given her pro-abortion stance.
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Posted by: Faustina01 -
Jan. 06, 2015 10:20 PM ET USA
And, will she receive the Holy Eucharist???
