Scranton, Pa., May 1, 2009 / 05:05 am
In response to U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, Jr.’s “inconsistent” record on pro-life issues, Bishop of Scranton Joseph F. Martino, has said the Pennsylvanian Democratic senator should reflect on his actions and ask himself whether he should receive Holy Communion.
A Wednesday statement from the Diocese of Scranton reproduced Bishop Martino’s April 27 letter faxed to Sen. Casey’s office.
In the letter, Bishop Martino referred to his previous exhortation that Sen. Casey “oppose strenuously” Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius’ nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services because of her pro-abortion record and her political relationship with late-term abortionist Dr. George Tiller.
“Despite his claims of being “pro-life,” Sen. Casey’s voting record thus far has been inconsistent,” the diocese’s statement said.
The diocese said Sen. Casey is to be “commended” for his initiatives supporting pregnant women and families and for his defeated amendment which would have provided conscience protection on abortion for healthcare workers.