Illinois senator asks Pope to curb Dominican cardinal's criticism of gay US envoy
December 17, 2015
Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois has written to Pope Francis, criticizing “hateful” public remarks by Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez of Santo Domingo about the openly homosexual US ambassador to the Dominican Republic.
The Illinois lawmaker said that the ambassador, James “Wally” Brewster, has shown “patience and professionalism” in the “mean-spirited attacks” by the Dominican cardinal. He appealed to the Pope to stop the cardinal’s “intolerant public statements.”
Senator Durbin, who identifies himself as Catholic, acknowledged that the Church opposes same-sex marriage, but said that “the Church also teaches us to show tolerance for those with different sexual orientations.”
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Further information:
- Durbin defends openly gay ambassador in letter to Pope Francis (Chicago Tribune)
- Dominican Republic spars with gay US ambassador (CWN, 12/2)
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Posted by: -
Jan. 04, 2016 12:25 AM ET USA
The views and beliefs of the people of the Dominican Republic should be respected by withdrawal of such a nomination in favor of someone else. Mr. Durbin should think first.
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Posted by: hartwood01 -
Dec. 18, 2015 12:47 PM ET USA
Hateful remarks such as the Cardinal makes betray someone who has issues they have not resolved. Cardinal Rodriguez is a disgrace to the Church and no shepherd to his people.
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Posted by: Louise01 -
Dec. 18, 2015 1:57 AM ET USA
Senator Dick Durbin the ever-so honorable Catholic hypocrite!
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Posted by: james-w-anderson8230 -
Dec. 17, 2015 8:56 PM ET USA
Durbin should be contacting the president and requesting him to appoint an acceptable ambassador rather than an enemy of the Church.
