Bishop D’Arcy will not attend Notre Dame commencement featuring Obama

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Comments: 110

Bishop John D'Arcy

Fort Wayne, Ind., Mar 24, 2009 / 12:52 pm (CNA).- Bishop John M. D'Arcy has issued a statement saying that he won't be attending Notre Dame's commencement exercises, which will feature President Obama as the keynote speaker and honor him with a doctor of laws degree.

The Bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend, said that he was not informed of the decision to allow Obama to speak and be awarded a degree until just before the White House announced the news.

Of particular concern to the bishop is the fact that "President Obama has recently reaffirmed, and has now placed in public policy, his long-stated unwillingness to hold human life as sacred.

"While claiming to separate politics from science," said D'Arcy, "he has in fact separated science from ethics and has brought the American government, for the first time in history, into supporting direct destruction of innocent human life."

Pointing to a 2004 U.S. Bishops' statement that calls on Catholic institutions not to honor those who thwart Church beliefs, Bishop D'Arcy said that "the measure of any Catholic institution is not only what it stands for, but also what it will not stand for."

Notre Dame has also announced that it plans to award former Ambassador to the Holy See Mary Ann Glendon with its Laetare Medal. Bishop D’Arcy explained that he encouraged her to accept the medal and use the opportunity to teach, presumably about Church’s defense of all human life.

Bishop D’Arcy’s boycott of the event joins some 50,000 people who have already signed a petition asking Notre Dame’s president to withdraw Obama’s invitation to speak at the Catholic institution.

The full statement of Bishop D'Arcy follows.

Concerning President Barack Obama speaking at Notre Dame
graduation, receiving honorary law degree

March 24, 2009

On Friday, March 21, Father John Jenkins, CSC, phoned to inform me that President Obama had accepted his invitation to speak to the graduating class at Notre Dame and receive an honorary degree. We spoke shortly before the announcement was made public at the White House press briefing. It was the first time that I had been informed that Notre Dame had issued this invitation.

President Obama has recently reaffirmed, and has now placed in public policy, his long-stated unwillingness to hold human life as sacred. While claiming to separate politics from science, he has in fact separated science from ethics and has brought the American government, for the first time in history, into supporting direct destruction of innocent human life.

This will be the 25th Notre Dame graduation during my time as bishop. After much prayer, I have decided not to attend the graduation. I wish no disrespect to our president, I pray for him and wish him well. I have always revered the Office of the Presidency. But a bishop must teach the Catholic faith "in season and out of season," and he teaches not only by his words — but by his actions.

My decision is not an attack on anyone, but is in defense of the truth about human life.

I have in mind also the statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops in 2004. "The Catholic community and Catholic institutions should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions." Indeed, the measure of any Catholic institution is not only what it stands for, but also what it will not stand for.

I have spoken with Professor Mary Ann Glendon, who is to receive the Laetare Medal. I have known her for many years and hold her in high esteem. We are both teachers, but in different ways. I have encouraged her to accept this award and take the opportunity such an award gives her to teach.

Even as I continue to ponder in prayer these events, which many have found shocking, so must Notre Dame. Indeed, as a Catholic University, Notre Dame must ask itself, if by this decision it has chosen prestige over truth.

Tomorrow, we celebrate as Catholics the moment when our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, became a child in the womb of his most holy mother. Let us ask Our Lady to intercede for the university named in her honor, that it may recommit itself to the primacy of truth over prestige.

Comments: 110

Subscriber comments:

Published by: Ed Gergerich
Ambridge, PA, 15003 05/16/2009 02:43 PM EST

Separation of Church and state? Not in the US Constitution. Strong words but no action. According to Canon Law, all that calls itself Catholic in a given Diocese falls under the Authority of the Bishop. D'Arcy could expel Father Jenkins from the Diocese (and the entire order of Holy Cross Brothers) for violating his vow of obedience. He could strip Notre Dame of it's Catholic identity. It's HIS job to teach HIS flock. Instead of doing it himself he asks Glendon to do it? He wines and cries like a school girl and will offer services in the dark. Simply put, your Excellency, be a man and exercise you Apostolic Ecclesiastical authority, given to you by Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Published by: eleanor silva
falmouth,MA 04/10/2009 10:25 AM EST

Rate: Good

Of course President Obama should speak at Notre Dame
When Bishop D'Arcy was in Boston he was the wisest of men.
Has he changed so much that he cannot understand the separation of Church and State?

Published by: Dot Macchia
Brick/ NJ/USA 04/04/2009 08:35 PM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy and may your action cause all of the US Catholic Bishops to do the same.

Published by: PL
46556 04/01/2009 04:32 AM EST

Jim Lynch: "the Church's stance on the sanctity of life extends to absolute opposition to capital punishment"? The Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2266, says otherwise.

Jim Jones: Roe v. Wade was not overturned during the Bush presidency, but it's not as simple as, say, an executive order from the president. Bush appointed justices who did not creatively interpret the right to privacy as a right to abortion. Bush signed the partial-birth abortion ban that Clinton had vetoed three times. Bush signed the Born Alive Infants Protection Act and parental notification laws. Bush reinstated the Mexico City Policy which Pres. Obama has since repealed. Further, I would dispute the claim that the Republican party supports torture. What do you think McCain's stance is?

Dr. Jim McMahon: Voting against the Born-Alive Infants Protection Act is one example of (now Pres.) Obama acting against the right to life. He has also stated explicitly (as in his speech at a Planned Parenthood fundraiser) that abortion is a fundamental right--that he is indeed unwilling to hold unborn human life sacred. And I'm sure Bishop D'Arcy would be willing to meet with President Obama--This is very different from honoring his political career and giving him a platform at a Catholic institution.

Published by: Steve
Orlando, fl. 03/30/2009 07:38 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

While we might dine with sinners, and show them the light; and while universities should, in the context of the classroom, present and discuss all sides of an issue;
We, by no means, are directed, as Christians, to provide a large public platform for oppositional views, nor should we show tacit approval by handing out honors to those who espouse these views.
Christ did not tell us to sell the rope with which to hang ourselves; some communist did.
I hope the students of Notre Dame boycott the commencement as well.

Published by: Jim Lynch
Kansas 03/30/2009 12:29 AM EST

Rate: Regular

Congratulations to His Excellency. I trust that he had such a tortured conscience when former President Bush attended Notre Dame's commenecement in 2001. As Governor of Texas George Bush signed the death warrants for more convicts than any other single governor in the history of our nation. And surely, as the Church's stance on the sanctity of life extends to absolute opposition to capital punishment, I am sure His Excellency chose to skip in 2001 as well.
Please stop holding press conferences and get back to the business of saving souls. The Church has enough baggage already.

Published by: Paul
Dayton, OH 03/29/2009 09:36 PM EST

Ready to burn your Notre Dame fan stuff?
I invite you to start a bonfire to purge your house of anything with Notre Dame's soon-to-be-shameful logos on the day that Obama presides at the commencement ceremony. Who is with me?

Published by: Kay Ott
Huntington,In. USA 03/29/2009 07:43 PM EST

Bishop D`Arcy,
Thank you for deciding not to attend the commencement at Notre Dame.I am not Catholic. You have made a courageous decision!
Sincerely,
Kay Ott

Published by: richard & claudette lohr
flagler beach, florida 03/29/2009 11:54 AM EST

This Commencement Address and Honorary Degree would be a despicable affront to Notre Dame, its principles & traditions.Vita,DolcedoSpes!

Published by: Clarence
Jefferson City, MO USA 03/28/2009 02:36 PM EST

God Bless you, Archbp. D'Arcy. I pray all the Cardinals and Bishops also speak out in support of you and your excellent message to the pres. of Notre Dame so sadly offending our dear Blessed Mother.

Published by: Slomo
NJ 03/28/2009 07:21 AM EST

If Notre Dame withdraws its invitation to the President of the United States, its students should riot in the streets. Institutions of higher learning are supposed to expose their students to all sides of issues. If they don't, they are nothing but brainwashing camps.

Published by: patricia more
Detroit, MI 03/27/2009 06:51 PM EST

These are terrible and dangerous times when the personality of man becomes iconic and revered. Thank you Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: joe Fisher
newton ia usa 03/27/2009 05:11 PM EST

Thank God there are still men who speak with the voice of the Church. The "excessive" prudence of many of our leaders gives grave scandal to the faithful who know they are are failing in their duty to God. God bless Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Rene Dimatulac
Pickering/Ontario/Canada 03/27/2009 04:41 PM EST

I gave 100% support to Bishop D'Arcy.

I wish & hope that Canadian Bishops are like Bishop D'Arcy, too. TRUTH is TRUTH . . "whether in season or out of season" Never compromise the TRUTH that abortion is evil & abomination to Almighty God. To Fr. John Jenkins, I pray that you change your mind in inviting a president who publicly proclaims that killing the innocents is okay. Fr. John Jenkins, please be obedient to the Successor of St. Peter (the Pope & all Bishops), the visibile head of the CHURCH founded by the LORD JESUS CHRIST.

Published by: NOEL PENA
SANANTONIO,TEXAS.USA 03/27/2009 01:30 PM EST

Actions speak louder than words. I applaud yours Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Judith Bourtin
Wilton, CT 03/27/2009 07:46 AM EST

Shame on Notre Dame and thank you, Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: miriam
wpb, fl 03/26/2009 08:28 PM EST

Notre Dame a catholic university ? Not any more, you cannot be with God and the Devil. I feel Bishop D'Arcy is weak in his response to Fr. Jenkins. We are living in an age when we have to be firm, brave and ready to stand up and defend what the Church has taught us to defend. Shame on Fr. Jenkins, he must be asked to resign. He is not a role model for the students at ND. I would not wish my grandchildren to go to ND and receive this kind of education.

Published by: HGP
IL USA 03/26/2009 04:53 PM EST

Bishop D'Arcy, another Pontius Pilate. Why not use Canon Law (810?) and get rid of Fr.Jenkins.
The visits to US seminaries (report on USCCB website)showed a big deficit in teaching Moral Theology, this explains why so many priests, bishops and even cardinals have no concept of the evil of abortion. They need to be given a course in Moral Theology so they can do the right thing when faced with evil. Fr.Jenkins is a reflection of a lack of education in Moral Theology. He should not be in the position he is in. Let him pray in a monastery somewhere.

Published by: Stephen M. O'Brien
Nashville, TN, United States 03/26/2009 11:22 AM EST

Rate: Excellent

Fort Wayne-South Bend Bishop John M. D'Arcy should excommunicate Father John I. Jenkins, president of Notre Dame University, if the latter refuses to rescind the invitation extended to President Barack Obama.

Keep and spread the Faith.

Published by: ROBERT HOYING
MINSTER OHIO 03/26/2009 10:22 AM EST

Rate: Very Good

A SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS. OBAMA HAS ONLY ONE AGENDA, TO DESTROY THIS COUNTRY, ITS MORAL CONCEPT, ALL RELIGIONS, AND HUMAN LIFE.NOTRE DAME GIVE UP YOUR TITLE, WHAT YOU STOOD FOR NO LONGER HAS ANY MEANING, THIS WILL BE A BLACK DAY IN HELL. NO LONGER WILL WE HOLD YOU IN HIGH ESTEEM. THE DEED IS DONE EVEN IF YOU CANCEL HIM OUT. NOTRE DAME WILL BE SECOND RATE, IF EVEN THAT. SAY GOODBY TO YOUR FOOTBALL PROGRAM, IT WILL NOT BE ON MY TELEVISION, NOR IN MY HOUSE, FOR MY HOUSE BELONGS TO MY ALMIGHTY GOD. ROBERT HOYING 189 EAST 4TH MINSTER OHIO 45865

Published by: Brenda Sharp
Lewes, DE, USA 03/26/2009 09:52 AM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy for standing for God's Law.
As a Christian, I believe it is our responsibility to stand by the law of GOD no matter how many people stand against us. I always think of David when it seems the opposition is a Giant.

Published by: jan rotterman
xenia Ohio 03/25/2009 03:44 PM EST

Rate: Regular

I am a proud Catholic prolife Notre Dame Domer, the only thing I love as much as my faith and family is Notre Dame! I am sorry for all of you who threaten and shame us because we voted for Obama, the Bishop misses the greatest point, ALL HUMAN LIFE IS VALUABE, and Jesus cries for all the wrong in the world; abortion, as well as nameless other sins, some perpetrated on our innocent children by the very clergy who condemns Obama, "Cheer Cheer for Ol'Notre Dame....Shake Down the Thunder from the Sky ...While her loyal sons are marching onward to Victory..." Notre Dame Our Mother, we Love You!!Pray for Us and the sins of the WHOLE WORLD

Published by: Rosemary E. Lloyd
Elberon, NJ USA 03/25/2009 01:47 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Thank you, Bishop D'Arcy for NOT attending this year's Notre Dame commencement exercises at which Pres. Obama will speak. As long as the school continues its leftist, liberal policies and ignores the church's most basic, fundamental teachings, it will not be Notre Dame but Notre Damned.

Published by: Dr. Jim McMahon
NYC 03/25/2009 01:29 PM EST

Rate: Regular

Bp D'Arcy referreed to Pres. Obama's ". . .long-stated unwillingness to hold human life sacred." He did so with no examples, and were the good Bp able to find one it would be a matter of interpretation--as was the President's decision to allow Fedderal funding for the use of embryos that would be discarded and destroyed and would not have a chance to live on otherwise. The President made an informed judgment, one with which the Bp could specifically disagree. Yet, Popes have met with then Soviet Dictators over the last 35 years who participated in Gulag exterminations, and they met with religious leaders who held the RC Church to be apostate. I'm sure the Bp will be missed--and invited anew in the future.

Published by: Lois
Pgh Pa 03/25/2009 01:16 PM EST

Thank God for a Bishop who will stand up for what we believe, that life is sacred from conception till God takes that life home to him.

Published by: mel martinez
belfair,wa.u.s. 03/25/2009 01:05 PM EST

Bishop D'arcy, you are right on standing on Truth! Keep it up!

Published by: Mary Sisak
New Castle PA 03/25/2009 12:54 PM EST

Another good bishop. When will Pittsburgh get such a courageous and devote bishop?

Published by: Doug Schexnayder, PhD
Vidalia, La. USA 03/25/2009 12:39 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

IS NOTRE DAME CATHOLIC???

As you may have heard the dufus (aka secular socialist) administration of Notre Dame is having Obama as its commencement speaker. Repeat, the man with a 100% congressional rating by Planned Parenthood is speaking at a “Catholic” University.

Its not bad enough other PP heroes like Teddy K, John K and Nancy P (democrats of course) are acting like papal authority clones but we have now yet another outrageous situation.

Do you think the Jews For Jesus national head is speaking at any jewish-run university commencement? Is the national atheist group leader speaking at Liberty University’s commencement?
Where is the Alumni Association on this repulsive decision?
This is not tolerance or openness, this is fawning offensive stupidity.

I am both disgusted and ashamed.

Published by: Gerry Tomlinson
El Dorado, Arkansas, USA 03/25/2009 12:33 PM EST

Bishop D'Arcy's stand invokes both tears and chill bumps. The tears are for the innocent unborn and the chill bumps are for the courage the Bishop shows in his plan to boycot this years commencement exercise. On this 25th day of March, let us pray:
The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit. HM...
Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Be it done unto me according to thy word. HM...
And the Word was made flesh. And dwelt among us. HM...
Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts; that, we to whom the Incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by His passion and cross, be brought to the glory of His resurrection. Throught the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Published by: Mary
Oak Ridge, NC 03/25/2009 11:59 AM EST

THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU....
It is so wonderful to read that Bishop D'Arcy is making a stance and not attending. For all those faithful Catholics who DID NOT vote for Obama based upon his anti-life agenda and for someone who truly stood up for the pro-life movement (I am a birth mother)...I THANK YOU!!

Published by: Sarah Powers
Mundelein, IL USA 03/25/2009 11:52 AM EST

Bishop D,Arcy - I applaud your decision. I am saddened that ND is choosing to betray it's Catholic origins and beliefs simply for publicity benefits of having President Obama as a commencement speaker.

Published by: June Vaughn
Woodbridge, CA 03/25/2009 11:23 AM EST

All you Catholics who voted for Obama should be ashamed of yourselves. I am sure this is just the beginning of the damage that this man will do to our country.

Published by: Sandra M. Freeman
Salinas 03/25/2009 11:20 AM EST

Notre Dame should not receive any funding from catholics in any form, until the university has formally denounced any and all policies that are clearly directed in favor of the"culture of death".

Published by: David
Shawnee Kansas 03/25/2009 11:16 AM EST

It's a sad day, I hope that all the students turn their back when Obama is speaking. That would show the pres where we stand.

Published by: liz
neelyton,pa 03/25/2009 11:14 AM EST

I totally agree with Bishop D'Arcy! I can only imagine what a difficult decision it must have been, not to attend the ceremony.
What does our President really stand for? Those are questions we should all be asking.My prays are with Bishop D'Arcy

Published by: Gabriel Espinosa
Monticello 03/25/2009 10:59 AM EST

Do as I did and call the Bishop to voice your support. I'm sure he gets alot of abusive calls from the freaks and liberals, so let's show him that there are REAL Catholics out there!! His phone number is (260) 422-4611

Published by: Jim Robbins
Centennial, CO USA 03/25/2009 09:37 AM EST

Kudos to you Bishop D'Arcy! Shame on you Notre Dame.

Published by: Lloyd Young
Brownsville, Texas/USA 03/25/2009 09:36 AM EST

Let Bishop D'Arcy be an
example to all Catholics and his strength an example to his brother Bishops.

Published by: Mary Moul
Fond du Lac, WI USA 03/25/2009 09:06 AM EST

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Bishop D'Arcy for standing up for the truth. You are a Bishop who is following the "True Catholic teachings" - you make me proud to be Catholic - thank you Good Shephard for leading God's sheep on the right path... :) Mom of 9 kids who are following you :) May the Holy Spirit continue to inspire you and give you strength to stay strong in your faith.

Published by: Anthony Salvatore
Jacksonville, Florida 03/25/2009 09:06 AM EST

I congratulate Bishop D'Arcy for following his conscience and the teachings of the Church, instead of playing politics.

All Catholics, especially the clergy, must strongly urge Notre Dame to rescind its invitation to Obama and urge Jenkins to resign.

On the issue of abortion, there is no negiotated or mediated middle ground.

Published by: C. Warren Stelly
Lafayette, LA 03/25/2009 08:34 AM EST

Dear Bishop D'Arcy,
If as you say:"The Catholic community and Catholic institutions should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles;furthermore,they should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions", then why do you permit any Catholic University to honor one whom Fr. Corapi just described as a friend of Satan???

Wake Up Bishop, and prevent all such evil demonstrations from occurring!

Yours in Christ,
C. Warren Stelly

Published by: Tom T.
Arlington Heights, IL 03/25/2009 08:34 AM EST

Congratulations, Bishop! Finally, someone willing to stand up for what is right! That the leadership at Notre Dame cannot see the travesty of this invitation is remarkable yet not surprising, given its penchant for prestige over principle. I encourage you to consider removing its "Catholic" status for its wanton disregard for the sacredness of human life and Catholic teaching. Blessings on you this day and may God have mercy on us all.

Published by: Dai Yoshida
Jackson, MI 03/25/2009 08:21 AM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Sean Johnson
St. Paul/MN 03/25/2009 07:29 AM EST

Wow! Very encouraging to see a Novus Ordo bishop say something consistent with what his predecessors would have said before Vatican II.

Published by: Julie Pedersen
Cedar Rapids, IA 03/25/2009 07:01 AM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Maurice Gagnon
Owings Mills/MD/USA 03/25/2009 06:35 AM EST

God Bless Bishop D'Arcy! It is refreshing to see the U.S. bishops begin to take a stand for the truth of our faith rather than cave-in to the secularists who continually ask Catholics to compromise ethics for acceptance! My son is a 1995 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and it saddens me to see Father Jenkins cheapen her image. Immaculate Heart of Mary pray for the university that bears your name!!

Published by: X
X 03/25/2009 01:46 AM EST

Rate: Regular

Yet another example of religion being divisive.

Published by: Josephine Yu
Honolulu, HI 03/25/2009 01:40 AM EST

God be praised for our genuine spiritual leaders and this time Bishop D'Arcy. His courageous stance is exemplary and I pray it will open the eyes of those who have been swayed by worldly ideals relegating MORAL TRUTHS away from the forefront - which molds humanity's souls. Notre Dame University needs to make restitution. I fear for their souls.

Published by: Jaime Maia
São Paulo - Brazil 03/25/2009 01:19 AM EST

Well done, Excellence!

Published by: Father Joe Blonski
Show Low, AZ, USA 03/25/2009 12:35 AM EST

It's a sad day when a Roman Catholic bishop cannot in good conscience attend the graduation ceremony of a Catholic university in his diocese, especially one dedicated to Our Lady.

Published by: Bernard J .Shea
Polson Montana 03/25/2009 12:06 AM EST

My hats off to you your excellency.For the love of Almighty God,Please listen to your Bishop,run him out on a rail.

Published by: Tim
Japan 03/24/2009 11:50 PM EST

Thank you Bishop D'arcy for standing up for the unborn, Who are the poorest of the poor and for the truth which does not change with the times.

Published by: Buck Feinstein
Kansas City, MO 03/24/2009 08:46 PM EST

Call me when the good bishop revokes the privilege of this university to call itself "Catholic". Until then...

Published by: Joe Sabaitis
Chesapeake 03/24/2009 08:29 PM EST

Thank you Bishop for your refusal to attend graduation exercises with Obama.
The country is turning into a society with no regard for life.
Thank you

Published by: Char Trident
Fenton, MO 63026 03/24/2009 07:50 PM EST

I fully support the
Bishop John M. D'Arcyl
I prayed to God Obama will be condem in eternal hell for the rest of his life for supporting supporting direct destruction of innocent human life.

Published by: Lori
Illinois 03/24/2009 07:46 PM EST

Bishop D'Arcy is to be commended and held in the highest esteem and prayer. "O" has no right to set foot on Catholic ground, much less any Faith-based entity that is pro-life.

Published by: Kay
Mendota,IL, USA 03/24/2009 07:29 PM EST

Here's a bishop who has the courage to speak out on behalf of the unborn and for us orthodox Roman Catholic parishioners.
Thank you, Bishop!

Published by: Amy
Macungie PA USA 03/24/2009 07:06 PM EST

Beautifuly expressed by the Bishop. I sincerly hope Notre Dame retracts it's invitation. Catholic universities must stand apart, and for the tenants of the Catholic faith.

Published by: ELIZABETH
JOHNSON 03/24/2009 06:53 PM EST

IT IS MY SUGGESTION THAT THE GRADUATION CLASS NOT ATTEND THE CEREMONY. THEY CAN ACCEPT THEIR DIPLOMA AT ANOTHER TIME.

Published by: Patrick O'Hara
Morton/PA 03/24/2009 06:52 PM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy for speaking out on this issue. Notre Dame officials should be ashamed of their actions.

Published by: Robert Beck
Chicago, Illinois 03/24/2009 06:51 PM EST

May God bless Bishop John D'Arcy, for standing with the anti-abortionists' line in defense of both the unborn and life of the mother. May those other Catholics in America
follow the exemplary
conduct of this humble " Watchman ".

Published by: Gary A. Hofmeister
Indianapolis, Indiana 03/24/2009 06:35 PM EST

Notre Dame has for years shown that celebrity and prestige is much more important than Catholic dogma. Why don't they just announce that they are no longer affiliated with the Catholic Church? That would be apropos.

Published by: Cindy Piper
FL 03/24/2009 05:54 PM EST

God bless Bishop John M. D'Arcy who is taking a stand against obama who supports abortion. I pray that more Bishops speak out as well.

Published by: Margaret Ducharme
West Springfield, MA, USA 03/24/2009 05:53 PM EST

A Roman Catholic Bishop with principles and intestinal fortitude. You don't see that very often. It's time to get these Catholic colleges and universities back to their original mission of upholding the Church's teachings.

Published by: Patrick Glashan
Calgary, Alberta, Canada 03/24/2009 05:45 PM EST

God bless Bishop D'Arcy, a rare voice of integrity in the episcopal wilderness.
Shame on the University of Notre Dame for its appalling decision to invite President Obama... Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us!

Published by: Connie
harrison,Mi usa 03/24/2009 05:44 PM EST

Where is the Alumni?
If you don't want him there send Notre Dame a letter telling them since they has no respect for life, you will not be sending any support this year to the school in protest. Money talks and BS walks my friend. It worked in Colorado, and it can work here. Sign the petition.

Published by: Tom
Wayne, N.J. 03/24/2009 05:44 PM EST

We pray for more Bishops like him.

Published by: Denise
Dearborn, MI 03/24/2009 05:43 PM EST

Good choice Bishop D'Arcy! I hope your visible witness through this prayerful action will encourage all of your brother bishops and our faithful laity to start standing up for our faith. Keeping Notre Dame in prayer. God Bless You.

Published by: Mary Anne
Vineland 03/24/2009 05:31 PM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy and I hope that there are many more Catholics who are invited who will not attend. If you don't stand for something you will fall for anything. I'll be praying for Notre Dame.

Published by: Warren
Howe,IN. USA 03/24/2009 05:19 PM EST

I praise Bishop D'arcy for upholding our Catholic moral values.I hope that the administration at Notre Dame will do the same.

Published by: Rachel Rudd
Radom/Mazowieckie/Poland 03/24/2009 05:09 PM EST

God bless the bishop's holy stand!

Obama, this bore of a man--inarticulate, inept, and completely lacking in wisdom or compassion--should not be honoured by any university under the aegis of the Catholic Church. It would be neither a scholarly or holy action.

Thus far, one has only seen from him a repetition of Bush's bad choices and a rescinding of all the good ones. Not that this is very surprising to all who saw through the emptiness (even though he had a teleprompter) of his mindless rhetoric.

Published by: Judy Curran
Seattle WA 03/24/2009 05:06 PM EST

I applaud the Bishop for his stand in support of our Church teachings. Giving Obama a soap-box at a Catholic University is just what he wants. Notre Dame gives him tacit support by letting him speak there. How sad for al the parents who sent their children there thinking they were going to a University that uphold our faith.

Published by: John Dowd
Tacoma WA USA 03/24/2009 04:56 PM EST

My prayers go to Bishop D'Arcy. It is heartening to myself and other Catholics who have been too often scandalized by our Church leaders and members. This act by the Bishop is an act that gives me HOPE and encouragement.

Published by: Barb Retherford
Alpena, MI 03/24/2009 04:47 PM EST

It seems to me that a commencement speaker is one who the graduates should emulate that person's actions and ideals. Obama's views on abortion and stem cell research do not align with Catholic teaching, and I feel he is a poor candidate to receive honors from a supposedly Catholic college.

Published by: David
San Antonio, Tx 03/24/2009 04:24 PM EST

This issue in fact can be solved quickly. The Bishop could prohibit the event from occurring. If the Catholic university is not obedient then the university should cease being a Catholic university. It's actually quite simple.

Published by: Sean
Boston 03/24/2009 04:17 PM EST

Wow, what a strong leader. What would we do without the bravery of the Archbishop. He is so strong to stand up for our aborted brothers and sisters by courageously not showing up. I just know that everybody in attendance will be so shocked by the Archbishop's absence, that they'll be simply unable to bask in the glow of the celebrity President and to throw a huge bash thanking him for deigning to speak.

Published by: Rick DeLano
LA CA USA 03/24/2009 04:16 PM EST

Bravo, Your Excellency. Thank you. Please proceed now to the necessary corrective actions concerning those responsible, starting with Fr. Jenkins.

Published by: Patrick
Boardman, OH, USA 03/24/2009 04:12 PM EST

The Church is still taking the same type of stand that Bush took in not speaking to those HE deemed as terrorists; condemnation rather than dialogue. Does that help anything? I think Notre Dame should be condemned as an anti-Catholic institution based on this philosophy. After all, they are the ones that invited Obama and are giving him an honorary degree. What say, Bishop D'Arcy?

Published by: Chris Roberts
Mercer Island, WA 03/24/2009 04:07 PM EST

WOW, Bishop D'Arcy those are really strong words! NOT!

So what if you don't attend the graduation, like any students will care. The point is you are less powerful than the ND President and you acted wimpy. Be a real Bishop like Chaput and penalize Father Jenkins and maybe try to remove the entire board that made this illicit invitation to Obama.

Will hitler be invited next since they are open to honor people who take innocent human lives?

Not much of a backbone Bishop.

Published by: Carmen
Wichita, KS USA 03/24/2009 03:57 PM EST

I am glad to hear that Bishop John M. D'Arcy is standing up for our Catholic faith and truths. Praise be to GOD for this and I pray that Father Jenkins from N.D. has a change of heart.

Published by: Margaret Ellis
Sun City Center, Fl 03/24/2009 03:48 PM EST

I too am apalled that Notre Dame, would ask Pres. Obama to speak...Shame on you Notre Dame, I used to love that Name itself.. How sad that we can honor someone who would even take the life of his own granchild if his daughter got pregnant!!!!!!!

Published by: mariefrance morris
pearl city, hawaii 03/24/2009 03:38 PM EST

PRAISE & IMUA TO BISHOP D'ARCY! GOD BLESS HIM BIG TIME! HIS ACTIONS ARE VERY COMMENDABLE. SHAME ON NOTRE DAME UNIV FOR CHOOSING SOMEONE WHO CONTRADICTS THE CATHOLIC TEACHINGS ON THE SANCTITY OF LIFE TO BE THEIR KEYNOTE SPEAKER! SHAME... SHAME... WHAT A MIXED MESSAGE FOR CATHOLICS/ CHRISTIANS.

Published by: guest
Santa Clara, CA 03/24/2009 03:33 PM EST

I applaud Bishop D'Arcy's courageous action and applaud the many other bishops in the U.S. who have been standing up for the unborn.

If every Catholic in the U.S. simply never voted for a pro-abortion candidate, that would be enough to end legalized abortion.

Published by: gerry boos
branchville,nj,usa 03/24/2009 03:32 PM EST

I pray for Bishop D'Arcy & fully support his decision. I am deeply saddened a Catholic facility dedicated to Our Lady would choose to honor a supported of Abortion.

Published by: John P. Slauson
Weedsport 03/24/2009 03:29 PM EST

It's like inviting the devil to speak, after all, he's a pretty smart guy and he is a fact of life so let's just find ways to get along. I find it hard to believe Notre Dame did this!

Published by: Mike Drabik
Toledo, Ohio 03/24/2009 03:27 PM EST

Good for Bishop D'Arcy. But he might alsoconsider attending the prayer service to be held on 05/17/09 from 2-4 pm which Catholicvote.com is organizing.

Published by: Kathy Barr
Newark, DE 03/24/2009 03:17 PM EST

I admire Bishop D'Arcy's decision and his explanation. I wish he would consider holding a counter ceremony for those students and their families who also wish to "not honor those who act in defiance of (the Church's) fundamental moral pricipals.

Published by: Jim Jones
Fresno/CA/USA 03/24/2009 03:07 PM EST

Rate: Regular

As a Catholic myself, I find it odd that the Church continues such ardent support of the Republican party that has done absolutely nothing for the issue of abortion - unless you count lip service.

The GOP uses abortion year after year as a way to garner support from religious communities, but what has this party actually done to protect the life of the unborn?

But we do know that they support the death penalty. We do know that they support torture. And preemptive wars. And other catastrophic human suffering through disastrous economic policies.

Is the Church playing God by judging what life is more valuable? Discarded embryos vs 100,000 Iraqi lives? A stance on abortion that does not challenge the Roe v Wade decision vs 4.5 million families devastated by unemployment? And what of the families of our 4,500 dead soldiers and soldiers from around the world? Are their lives not valuable?

Published by: Anne
Grand Haven 03/24/2009 02:58 PM EST

The fact that Notre Dame is honoring Barack Obama is a slap in the face of Pro-Life Catholics. The Catholic Religion is losing their identity by watering down their beliefs. Very sad and hypocritical.

Published by: Mary Humbert
Beltsville, Md, US 03/24/2009 02:52 PM EST

Thank you, Bishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Clotilde Lillig
Indianapolis IN 03/24/2009 02:38 PM EST

I am heart sick over Notre Dame having Obama and honoring him. I stand with the bishop that "the measure of any Catholic institution is not only what it stands for, but also what it does not stand for." Is prestige more important than your immortal soul?

Published by: Shamal Jayakody
Orlando,FL, USA 03/24/2009 02:32 PM EST

Rate: Regular

I am a Catholic. I like Obama's views on politics.

Published by: Francis Xavier T
Washington, D.C. 03/24/2009 02:30 PM EST

Bishop John M. D'Arcy, I salute you.

Published by: jackie Tippmann
Ft. Wayne,In USA 03/24/2009 02:18 PM EST

Thank you for not attending this disgraceful event at our Notre Dame. Why would the most recognized Catholic University invite the most pro-abortion president ever to receive any kind of honor? Notre Dame should rethink it's Catholic beliefs-is this really what a Catholic Institution should do???

Published by: Wendell
Branson, Mo 03/24/2009 02:13 PM EST

I am not a Catholic but a Baptist and I hold this Bishop in high regard for his stand. He is a real man.

Published by: Tim Lang
Ohio 03/24/2009 02:10 PM EST

Thankyou Bishop D'Arcy.

I hope this statement is read by the students and faculty of N.D. who espouse faithfulness to the Church. The Catholics for Sebelius crowd at N.D. could care less that a successor to the apostles is boycotting the graduation.

One of the N.D.law school professors has a post at National Review where he laments Obama being honored but belittles smaller Catholic schools that have reputations for solid orthodoxy and practice as not mattering. He states that Notre Dame matters.

The truth proclaimed at the small faithful schools matters more than the prestige of Notre Dame.

FWIW the prof. I refer to has a well deserved reputation for faithfullness to Christ's Church. I hope that he and other faithful members of the Notre Dame family will at least ask themselves, "If my Bishop has decided to boycott the commencement, should I stand with him?"

Published by: Tim Lang
Ohio 03/24/2009 02:09 PM EST

Published by: Theresa
Ave Maria, Florida, USA 03/24/2009 01:59 PM EST

Thank you Bishop D'Arcy for your strong statement in opposition to ND's choice of "prestige over truth".
May God bless you and continue to be a bishop with backbone.

Published by: Nancy Pare
Derry, NH USA 03/24/2009 01:44 PM EST

I am shocked and deeply saddened that Notre Dame would be so bold as to blatenly oppose the directive of the Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2004. I commend Bishop D'Arcy for his courageous witness in proclaiming Gospel truth and I join my prayers with the Bishop to continue to pray for our president that he would allow the Spirit of God to penetrate his heart and protect human life from conception to natural death. I also pray for the president of Notre Dame that God would help him to see how deeply he is hurting our Holy, Catholic and Apostalic Church by his misguided invitation. God have mercy on us!

Published by: Tony May
Great Falls, MT 03/24/2009 01:40 PM EST

My son is considering graduate studies at Notre Dame in sacred music.
I would say he may now reconsider Notre Dame as a possibility in the light of these events.

Published by: Tony May
Great Falls, MT 03/24/2009 01:37 PM EST

I aggree with Bishop D'Arcy. I am profoundly saddened that any Catholic university, and especially one with such prominence, would allow itself to be used as a platform for sending the wrong message about the destruction of human life.

Published by: Charlotte
Kingwood, TX 03/24/2009 01:31 PM EST

I applaud Bishop D'Arcy for his stance on President Obama's recieving an honorary degree at Notre Dame. After all it was the bishops who urged all Catholics to consider very seriously the candidates and their position on the "Life Issue during this election year.

Published by: fanny santos
kearny, new jersey 03/24/2009 01:29 PM EST

I am deeply offended and sad to know that a man of the cloth has invited a man that has no regards for human life.

Published by: Catherine Collins
Canada 03/24/2009 01:27 PM EST

Wow! Thank you, Archbishop D'Arcy.

Published by: Michael Austen
Pembroke, ON, Canada 03/24/2009 01:26 PM EST

Notable Quotes from Bishop Darcy:

"he has in fact separated science from ethics and has brought the American government, for the first time in history, into supporting direct destruction of innocent human life."
-Very poignant. Suggesting Obama's claims are in fact contradictory.

"the measure of any Catholic institution is not only what it stands for, but also what it will not stand for." - I think this is often missed; must Catholic institutions tolerate everything?"

"Notre Dame must ask itself, if by this decision it has chosen prestige over truth." - the clincher; I don't think there is any other way you can read Fr. Jenkins' attempted justification than this.

Our Lady, Notre Dame, who conceived of the Holy Spirt; humanity and divinity converging in your womb: PRAY FOR US.

Published by: Andrea Remke
Hebron Ky 03/24/2009 01:25 PM EST

Good for you Bishop Darcy! I pray Notre Dame will see the truth in Obama's policies and what a slap in the face this would be to pro-life Catholics everywhere when Obama is 'honored' at Notre Dame (Our Mother).

Published by: Wes Lamb
Springfield, GA, USA 03/24/2009 01:25 PM EST

Three cheeers for the Bishop! Notre Dame should be ashamed of itself for extending the invitation to begin with. But, like so many other so-called 'Catholic' institutions, they are 'Catholic' in name only, if even that! The invitation is an INSULT to all Catholics who try and uphold and abide by what our Church teaches. By the way, I would like to know just what Notre Dame is teaching in this regard???

Published by: Radomysl Twardowski
Bismarck, ND, USA 03/24/2009 01:22 PM EST

This is slightly better news in light of Bishop Gettelfinger's boycotting RNC Chairman Michael Steele. I still think that there is some asymmetry ( and apologize for a spelling error in another comment) that the churchmen are more gracious for and solicitous of the Democrats ("we wish them well and pray for them") than for the Republicans ( I have never seen any prayers and wishes for the Republican party and its members coming from the Church). There are only terse comments for less than perfect pro-life statements and constant "prayers" for the committed, unrepentant enablers of the killing of the unborn (democrat party as a whole). What in the world?

Published by: Trimelda
Idaho Falls, ID USA 03/24/2009 01:14 PM EST

I know that as a non Catholic woman bishop that Bishop D'Arcy would not see me as a colleague. But none the less I say, God speed you and your ministry for your stance for life, my fellow bishop in arms!

Published by: Mike Woods
Genoa/NV/USA 03/24/2009 01:08 PM EST

As a graduate of Notre Dame, class of 1962 I totally agree with the stand taken by Bishop D'Arcy and am glad he has taken such a stand.

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