The following is a statement from Archbishop Samuel Aquila in support of the letter published on January 24 by Las Vegas Bishop George Leo Thomas:
“I would like to commend Bishop George Thomas of the Diocese of Las Vegas for his recent statement that boldly, clearly, and compassionately addressed the serious issue of Catholic politicians who support policies in direct contradiction to Church teaching, most especially on the issues of abortion and assisted suicide.
I fully support the words of my brother bishop, and encourage the faithful of the Archdiocese of Denver to read them as well.
As I have written over the last year, St. Paul’s words and the teachings of the Catholic Church are clear that a person who receives the Eucharist in an unworthy manner is endangering his or her soul, and it is a matter of love and duty as a bishop to make sure those who are under my care fully understand this truth.
I echo Bishop Thomas’ words that any Catholic who has rejected the Church’s teachings on the sanctity of life at all stages “to look deeply into their own hearts, and reexamine the Church’s moral conviction” on these issues. And I continue to encourage any Catholic politician from the Archdiocese of Denver to refrain from receiving the Eucharist if they are unwilling to change and repent of their immoral political positions.
Finally, for many years I have met privately with local elected leaders to discuss how their faith can guide them in their work, and today I once again extend an invitation to any of our local Catholic politicians who would like to meet with me to discuss the teachings of the Church.
Let us all continue to pray for those who have been called to serve in public office.”
Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila
Archbishop of Denver
