Vatican confirms that Pelosi will have audience with the Pope

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U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi

Vatican City, Feb 16, 2009 / 11:55 am (CNA).- On Monday at noon in Rome, the Vatican’s Press Office confirmed to CNA that Pope Benedict will be receiving U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi in an audience at noon on Wednesday.

Pelosi, a self-proclaimed "ardent Catholic" who has sparked significant criticism from fellow Catholics in the U.S. for her pro-abortion views, arrived in Italy on Sunday for an eight-day official visit.

After landing at the USAF base in Aviano, she and the American delegation met with the mayor Florence, Leonardo Domenici at the "Palazzo Vecchio" (The Old Palace.)

On Monday, Pelosi began a series of meetings with Italian political authorities at the Quirinale Palace, where she was received by the President of the Italian State, Giorgio Napolitano. She then moved to the nearby Italian Congress for a meeting with the President of the Government, Gianfranco Fini.

Later in the evening, a reception honoring the U.S. delegation will take place at the Library of Montecitorio Palace where Pelosi will deliver the address: "Strong Allies for a Secure Future."

On Tuesday, the Speaker of the House will be received by the President of the Council of Ministers, Silvio Berlusconi, at Villa Madama. In the afternoon Pelosi will hold meetings with the Minister of Defense, Ignazio La Russa and the Minister of International Affairs, Franco Frattini.

Although numerous reports have been published either confirming or denying that Pope Benedict would receive Pelosi in an audience, the Holy See’s Press Office confirmed to CNA on Monday at noon Rome time, that the Holy Father will receive the U.S. representative on Wednesday at midday.

The press office made clear that the Pope will meet with Pelosi in his capacity as a head of state since the Speaker of the House is the third in line to lead the U.S., should the president and vice president be unable to do so.

The idea of providing Pelosi with a photo-op has disturbed a significant number of U.S. Catholics and pro-life activists.

In August 2008, Pelosi attempted to offer a justification for why Catholics could support abortion and remain in good standing with the Church by giving a convoluted explanation based on misquotes of Sts. Augustine and Thomas Aquinas on "Meet the Press."

Pelosi's pretention at reinterpreting Catholic moral and theological teaching elicited strong criticism from more than 20 U.S. cardinals, archbishops and bishops.

More recently, Nancy Pelosi was strongly criticized for defending the insertion of millions in spending on contraceptives into the stimulus bill. Pelosi, who says she is an "ardent Catholic," told ABC's This Week that the money spent on family planning services would "reduce costs."

Over this past weekend pro-life activists and bloggers launched verbal salvos against the Vatican because they believe that the Holy See plans to present Nancy Pelosi with an award.

This is definitely not true, the Vatican’s press office told CNA. The idea that Pelosi would be awarded by the Vatican most likely is the result of activists confusing the visit to the Vatican with the Speaker of the House being awarded by a group of Italian legislators for being the first Italian American to reach such a high rank in the U.S. government.

Comments: 203

Subscriber comments:

Published by: chuck ryan
stockton, ca usa 03/06/2009 12:58 AM EST

public scandalizing must certainly be treated with public correction. our wonderful pope , known for clarity, will hopefully embrace this opportunity to teach. god bless to all.

Published by: Judy
Fowlerville MI 02/28/2009 06:25 PM EST

Like EVERYONE else....Nancy will have to answer to The Father when she departs this world. Don't think she will be able to pull one over on Him.

Published by: Gabe
Chicago IL USA 02/19/2009 06:59 PM EST

And she should certainly have an audience with the pope. If our reasoning is that she should not have an audience is because she is a sinner or that her views are not congruent with the teachings of the church, then maybe we shodul consider how we would feel if the next time we approached the confessional, the priest simply told us "no, you sinned too much."
Let's follow Jesus example and follow the weighty matters of the Law: Love, Justice, and Mercy...

Published by: Gabe
Chicago IL USA 02/19/2009 06:56 PM EST

Nancy Pelosi is a human
being, just one of the many sinners who makes up our broken church family. Let's not forget that. Let's also not forget that throughout history even popes have made excuses for killing. At least Nancy is confused. The popes knew better...
Signed,
Another "ardent Catholic"

Published by: diane
USA 02/17/2009 09:19 AM EST

She should be x-communicated--pronto--as she speaks mistrues about the catholic churchs views on abortion, which has caused a lot of confusion for catholics--the church should take a stand against her.

Published by: mjones
USA 02/17/2009 09:18 AM EST

I hope the Father tells her that she is wrong on many things and must make right on them or be excommunicated.

Published by: David Nelson
Roanoke, VA, USA 02/17/2009 09:04 AM EST

Saint Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host -
by the Divine Power of God -
cast into hell, satan and all the evil spirits,
who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.

Published by: Tracy Montee
Hubertus, WI USA 02/17/2009 09:02 AM EST

My feeling is that the Pope should read her the riot act about being Catholic, deny her communion until she PUBLICLY repents and threaten her with PUBLIC excommunication if she does not do so by Sunday. He needs to send a STRONG signal that the Church is the Church Militant and that he and the Church not going to be used by pro-death politicians to advance their position. This is just a ploy by the cynical Democratic party to USE the Pope to advance their pro-death plans. The Pope needs to do exactly what Jesus did in 'The Passion' and crush the head of this snake. Jesus did NOT advance the policies of the heretical priests and He did NOT 'go along' with them so as not to cause problems ...... He PUBLICLY renounced them by calling them what they were, a brood of vipers and whited sepulchres, full of dead men's bones. Jesus recognized that there are some that ARE going to Hell and He did NOT help them. He admonished them openly in hopes that some of them would repent. The Pope and the Church will gain much respect IF he does the same. If he doesn't, then the Church will be seen as a pawn of the democratic party. Comrade BO said it best, "The time for talk is OVER".

Published by: Gary Wilson
Moorestown, NJ, USA 02/17/2009 08:56 AM EST

Pelosi is a prime example of a "Cafeteria Catholic". She claims devoutness while actively promoting abortion. She should be given an opportunity to repent and, if she chooses not to do so, be excommunicated. The Church cannot maintain a double standard for the powerful and retain any credibility on this issue.

Published by: Jesse Williamson
Woodbridge, Virginia, USA 02/17/2009 08:55 AM EST

During their most recent conference in Baltimore, the bishops of the Catholic Church were scrambling for ideas in their quest for making reparations after November’s tragic election results. They were looking for ideas of how they could better communicate Catholic ideals and doctrine to an inattentive flock that overwhelmingly supported the pro-abortion candidate Barrack Obama. It is definitely too late for this time around, the toothpaste is entirely out of the tube. The bishops failed miserable in conveying the proper message, assuming they even tried. They may just presently be trying to build some consensus to save face.
There is a solution. If not a complete solution; it is at least an important starting point. Immediately excommunicate Joseph Biden, Nancy Pelosi, Ted Kennedy, John Kerry and any other political operative that claims fellowship with both the pro-abortion crowd and the Catholic Church. The Church’s position regarding the sanctity of life is clear. There is no need to repeat it here. What does appear to be unclear to the bishops is the meaning of communion.
The practice of Holy Communion in the Church began with Christ at the last supper. It expressed a fellowship with Christ and His disciples and of the disciples with one another. That meant that they shared not only fellowship, but common beliefs, unity, concord and agreement.
That which the bishops failed to do is now up to the Pope!

Published by: Roger Anthony
Rome, Ohio 02/17/2009 08:47 AM EST

Like others commenting on this CNA report I believe Pelosi should be excommunicated or at least corrected by the Pope. But faithful catholics, don't hold your breath. On most of the car bumpers of "catholics" in a NE Ohio "catholic" church parking lot were "OBAMA" stickers. If That's the kind of teaching most "catholics" receive today from their pastors. And the "catholic" vote is how Obama got elected. I am a faithful (traditional) catholic and am ashamed of Pelosi and other catholics in name only, including those in the Church hierarchy.

Published by: Jeffrey Smith
Toledo, Ohio, USA 02/17/2009 08:47 AM EST

Get real, people. The pope is not going to jeopardize the Vatican's relations with a world power by excommunicating one of it's highest democratically elected leaders, period.

Published by: Donna DeVore
Lake Havasu City, AZ 02/17/2009 08:36 AM EST

As a non-Catholic Christian my question is:
Seeing the parade of very wealthy Democrat politicians continue to be "Ardent Catholics", is it true you can BUY your way into good graces in the Roman Catholic church? There have always been rumors of such.

Published by: Diane Keeler
Nipomo, CA 02/17/2009 08:35 AM EST

This is the same woman who delighted with glee in wasting billions of yet unearned taxpayer dollars and who is pushing the Freedom Of Choice Act. Pray the Holy Father gets through to her!

Published by: Lara
BOSTON Ma 02/17/2009 08:31 AM EST

What an embarassment for all true Catholics who earnestly try to Practice their Religion. In Fact..its an insult and With the Kennedy/Kerry type of Catholics..no wonder the Catholic Church is losing mambers in America.

Published by: Caesar
New Holland, PA USA 02/17/2009 08:31 AM EST

As I watch the end times hurtle towards us, I can not believe Nancy Pelosi's crimes against humanity. Pope Benedict XVI please make the ultimate stand against the forces of evil. God Blees You.

Published by: Thomas
Youngstown, Ohio, USA 02/17/2009 08:30 AM EST

Enlighten her to the errors of her ways? This woman only pretends to be a catholic to ge your votes.

Published by: Joe DiLeo
Metairie La, USA 02/17/2009 08:24 AM EST

I hope the Pope Excommunicates her for the heresy she is spreading.

Published by: C Barr
Gainesville, FL 02/17/2009 08:21 AM EST

I can't believe that there are comments on here complaining about the "award", when the article made it clear that there will not be one. Assuming hypocrisy on the part of the Holy Father is another error. I have no doubt that while it may be private, he will admonish her for her anti-human stand.

Published by: Ed Featherston
Bellingham, MA 02/17/2009 08:13 AM EST

She is a 'cafeteria' catholic, she picks and choses which part of the faith to follow.

Published by: Dave
Indiana 02/17/2009 08:05 AM EST

Even though I agree with most of the comments - I didn't realize there were this many Ctholics left! I thought everyone was in hiding.

Published by: Al
Washington, D.C. 02/17/2009 08:04 AM EST

This woman is a disgrace and has no shame. I'm embarassed as an American Catholic that such an opportunist used our church for her selfish ambitions.

Published by: James Abshier
Elmhurst, NY 02/17/2009 08:03 AM EST

With the difference in Catholicism's stand on abortion and Senator Pelosi's ardent and active support of abortion, even partial birth abortions, should the Pope not publicly ex-communicating her, then the Catholic religion is a mockery. Let her join the church of Tom Cruise.

Published by: Bill Thomas
Springfield, Mo. USA 02/17/2009 07:52 AM EST

Pelosi is so full herself she will never listen to anyone, net even the POPE. She probably thinks she will change him.

Published by: John
Vermont, USA 02/17/2009 07:48 AM EST

"Ardent" Catholic? Must be the press release form Pelosi's office. I am ashamed of her, and all the other "Catholic" politicians in the US that don't hold the conviction of their faith, except where it is convenient. The writings of St Paul come to mind when I listen to these hypocrites. "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the un-corruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and to four footed beasts and creeping things." Romans 1 22:23

Published by: John Wilson
Pearl River, La. USA 02/17/2009 07:38 AM EST

My wife and I were both born into and raised in the Catholic religion. We have been married just over 50 years. My wife is what I describe as a "hard shell" Catholic - I consider myself a "soft shell" but do follow the rules as best I can. However, for at least the past 25 years we have seen and both agree that the Catholic choice attempt to become more "politically Correct" which has just about driven me out of the church. I do not like all of the "juking and jiving" which has now taken the place of a real quiet and peaceful mass. If I wanted this I would join the Baptist Church. We lost our adorned priest to hurricane "Katrina" when he refused to abandon his church. This priest was the last of a breed of what I consider as close to God as possible on this mostly evil planet now being controlled by evil people of which Nancy Pelosi heads the list. The fact that the current Pope would give this unholy, worthless and evil woman the time of day is beyond me. When he was appointed Pope we thought he would bring some semblance of sanity back into the Catholic faith but it appears this is beyond him. Lord help us now as it appears that Lucifer will rule after all.

Published by: taad
Louisville/oh/us 02/17/2009 07:35 AM EST

We should not tell the Holy Father what to do. It is not our place to do so. Why is when JPII met with people like Castro, or Gorbachev, it was okay. Pray for the Pope, don't attack him. He'll do what is needed.

Published by: Frank
Manassas, VA 02/17/2009 07:33 AM EST

Abortion is the current equivalent of the holocaust....the slaughter of innocents. Mzzzzzzz Pelosi should be given the opportunity to repent, and if she refuses, she should be excommunicated. This Pope, more than any other, should understand the Holocaust.

Published by: Rick
Highland Heights/ Ky/USA 02/17/2009 07:17 AM EST

This is an excellent opportunity for the Pope to explain to Nancy Pelosi the difference between the words "ardent" and "lasped"

Published by: erv
St. Louis, MO 02/17/2009 07:15 AM EST

Hopefully, the Pope will have a long talk with her explainning the Catholic faith as she obviouslyd oes not understand it. If she does not agree with our faith then she should be excommunicated.

Published by: Clare
Washington, DC 02/17/2009 07:11 AM EST

Oh, to be a fly on the wall during their conversation...

Published by: Ann B
Grand Rapids, MI 02/17/2009 07:04 AM EST

I sincerely hope that the Holy Father will take this opportunity to educate Ms. Pelosi on Catholic doctrine and that there are no compromises for political aspiration. In addition, I hope that the Holy Father will reinforce that donations to the church, through the Catholic Campaign for Human Development or any Catholic funding, will NOT support U.S. political machines (ACORN)that function to elect officials that support and are strong proponents of abortion. Contrary to filtered U.S. media, this is not the hope and change that many Catholic Americans are seeking.

Published by: Eahanual Schunniffuh
San Francisco, USA 02/17/2009 07:01 AM EST

I have no faith in the Catholic Church or the Holy Father. Nancy Pelosi is a murderer and one who advances the very cause that brought the destruction of Sodom. It is as though the Holy See were to meet with Satan himself. Pelosi will use the photos from this event to show that you can be what she is and still enjoy the company of the Pope and receive the sacraments of the church with no consequence. Think how this one event will allow millions to feel they can excuse and live in their sins as Pelosi does. It is cowardly for the church to allow Pelosi, Schumer, Kennedy and others to commit their vile sins of murder and abomination with impunity while they meet for tea with the Pope...

Published by: JANET LOGAN
CENTREVILLE, VA 02/17/2009 06:52 AM EST

This is what causes confusion among us Catholics. Pelosi makes a mockery of the Church and gets an audience with the Pope. He is sending the wrong message. How can he meet with someone who believes in murder? No wonder the kids today are confused. As a cradle Catholic I'm confused. It is frustrating. I think the Holy Father should rethink this meeting. Even if he is meeting as a head of state he is giving the appearance of accepting her views. This is scandalous

Published by: Dolly
Warren,Ohio, USA 02/17/2009 06:40 AM EST

Could this be why the stimulis bill vote was hurried along for lawmakers to vote on WITHOUT reading it....
so Pelosi and her gang can begin a "working vacation" to Italy? Makes me want to puke!

Published by: father_moray
Moorea, Tahiti 02/17/2009 06:13 AM EST

This meeting is just a ruse to cover up Pelosi's meetings with her masters, the Sorosian Overlords, those who are backing the Democrats in their economic Corruption of America.

Published by: Mary Lou Welz
Rochester,NY,USA 02/17/2009 05:07 AM EST

Pelosi is NOT a leader in the Catholic Church but her pride may make her think so.
She is pretty much dismissed out of hand.

Published by: Paul Belyea
Lynn MA, USA 02/17/2009 05:07 AM EST

Hey folks, lets give His Holiness some room here.
Remember that Our Lord was highly critizised for associating with sinners. Maybe this visit will actually wake up Pelosi, for the good of us all!

Published by: Lau Pan
USA 02/17/2009 03:32 AM EST

Wellll I'll be, she is going to ask for forgiveness, bless her soul.

Published by: deroy
chicago, IL-USA 02/17/2009 03:30 AM EST

the pope MUST excommunicate pelosi.
she is a pagan and anti-catholic. she supports abortion on demand and gay marriage.

the pope is either naive or avoiding the issue. the US catholic church is NOT catholic. they are either cafeteria catholics and unitarian-catholics.

perhaps 10% are practicing the faith.
pelosi, kennedy and kerry all need to be kicked out, they are pagans impersonating catholics for political use.

Published by: Elaine Suhre
Alhambra IL 02/17/2009 02:39 AM EST

Pessimist that I am and as strongly as I wish Madame Pelosi would get a knock or two, I don't think it will happen.

Read between the lines, here.

Vatican confirms that Pelosi will have audience with the Pope.

The press office made clear that the Pope will meet with Pelosi in his capacity as a head of state since the Speaker of the House is the third in line to lead the U.S., should the president and vice president be unable to do so.

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/new.php?n=15098

IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEAD OF STATE

I whish he would appear as the Shepherd.

Published by: John70
Yoncalla Or. U.S.A. 02/17/2009 02:35 AM EST

I believe that Kennedy,Durbin,Kerry,Biden,Casey and all the rest of our so called "Catholic" politicians are just sitting back ,waiting to see what happens to Saint Nancy. There will be wailing and grinding of teeth if she is strongly reprimanded but much celebration and arrogance if she isn't.

Published by: Kathleen
Staten Island, NY 02/17/2009 02:20 AM EST

I would love to be a fly on the wall and hear Pelosi try to talk smack about Aquinas and Augustine to *Benedict XVI* of all people. He will run rings around her. In a kind and pastoral manner of course. But Pelosi, and anyone else in the public eye or not, who condones and supports abortion, actively or passively, is *automatically* excommunicated. Just wish the American Bishops wouldn't scandalize the faithful by allowing the brazen politicians to receive Holy Communion. Now *that's* just a photo op...and it's a form of disrespect that has many Catholics disturbed. God loves sinners, but He wants 'em to *stop sinning*, duh! John Kerry and Ted Kennedy, for examples, are disrespectful disgraces who compound the sinfulness of their pro-abortion views with desecration of the Blessed Sacrament. Pelosi's right up there, and I hope BXVI has an effect on her. Somehow I doubt it, tho'. American Catholics like her are already a religion unto themselves and getting the word from the Pope ain't gonna put a dent in her arrogance.

Published by: M. Johnson
San Luis Obispo, CA, USA 02/17/2009 02:16 AM EST

I sincerely hope that Pelosi's meeting with the pope will cause a change within her "style" of Catholicism. However, I do believe that it is time for the American bishops, and maybe even the pope himself to pronounce severe warnings to some American politicians, by name and with a deadline for recanting their anti-Catholic beliefs. It is REALLY time for the bishops to USE excommunication as the lever in this matter!!! I'm personally fed-up with "ardent Catholics" in political positions!

Published by: Gene
abq, NM USA 02/17/2009 02:05 AM EST

Why is this person news?

Published by: Sue
CA/USA 02/17/2009 02:04 AM EST

Nancy Pelosi sold her soul a long time ago, she will say anything to get what she wants and will never follow through - just that same as Obama. Hasn't anyone seen The Omen 3????
A little holy water sprinkled on these people could show a lot!

Published by: dr benjamin franklin
washington DC 02/17/2009 01:52 AM EST

excuse me, but what is this state functionary doing using public funds to make a religious visit? What good will come of this? I thought we had a separation of church and state and if she wants to have a nice chat, pay for it out of her own pocket.

Published by: Russ
Pasco, Wa. USA 02/17/2009 01:50 AM EST

Dear Pope Benedict

Please do not give this would be Catholic the benifit of the doubt as to her belief in the Catholic religion because she is really not a faithful Catholic. Condoms and abortions do not fit the Catholic religion.

Published by: Frank Ciafardone
Fayette County, GA USA 02/17/2009 01:40 AM EST

Perhaps He will explain to her the difference between communion and Communion since she likes to parse words to justify her world at the expense of others.

Published by: George azhikunnu
Germany 02/17/2009 01:33 AM EST

Ms.Pelosi represents the regime of USA. And the view of this government on Abortion,Homosexual relationship etc are contradictary to the teaching of the Catholic Church. The Holy father can make use of the meeting with Ms.Pelosi ,the Speaker of the USA house of representative to emphasis Church´s views
so that she may influence her party to correct its stand on these critical issues affecting the future of hunmanity.

Published by: Tom
South Jordan, UT, USA 02/17/2009 01:21 AM EST

I am not a Catholic, but I have a lot of respect for Pope Benedict XVI. He has consistently been courageous in supporting Christian values. His voice is frequently made known in defense of the right, even when it is not popular to do so.

I hope he takes the opportunity to teach Speaker Pelosi what it means to be a Catholic. She would do well to listen to him.

Published by: david
Texas 02/17/2009 01:14 AM EST

Pelosi is clearly exploiting the Holy Father to her own gain. This meeting will cause great scandal.

Published by: Will
Corona, CA, USA 02/17/2009 01:13 AM EST

I for one am pleased that Pope Benedict has chosen to meet with Mrs. Pelosi. She is a woman of great influence in our country, and I am sure will approach the Holy Father with respect and deference. It is always best to keep many channels of communication open, especially in this instance.

Published by: kathy Penn
Bronx, NY 02/17/2009 01:05 AM EST

Is it any wonder that the Church in the U.S. has less and less followers each year?? When our leadership allows a human like this an audience, where do the rest of us belong?? She is a disgrace as a supposed Catholic and the Pope should let her have it just as Jesus gave it to the merchants in the temple.....Lord help us all if this is the best we have to represent our country in foreign places.

Published by: Fearless Bystander
USA 02/17/2009 01:03 AM EST

Could the pope do an exorcism to rid this woman of her goofy ideas?

Published by: Ted Hohl
Kennewick, WA USA 02/17/2009 01:02 AM EST

Jesus ate with those whom the populace thought were sinners and not worthy of his presence. B16 is just being a good shepherd, Christ’s representative on earth.

Published by: Rick Ward
Dothan Al. 02/17/2009 12:56 AM EST

I pray that the Holy Father can talk some sense into her. Abortion is a crime against human dignity. I am confident that he will at least tell her that she is wrong on this issue.

Published by: Dale
Nashville, TN 02/17/2009 12:53 AM EST

This woman has gone off the deep end. Her stances on a variety of issues puts her at odds with the church. Her true religion is politics, everything else comes after that. Her conscience has been silenced many years ago. I'm sad to see this. This is a symptom of something much deeper than meets the eye.

Published by: Tim Plutino
Diamond/MO/USA 02/17/2009 12:49 AM EST

Maybe he can say a few well placed prayers for exorcism over her or at the very least, a few good binding prayers(prayers against demonic influence)

Published by: Cheryl S.
Goldendale, WA, USA 02/17/2009 12:37 AM EST

Keep in mind that this is an official type visit of Head of State to Head of State.
I wish people would allow the Church via Her Pope to handle this matter. None of us was selected to be Pope by the Holy Spirit; Ratzinger was. Most of us would find ourselves in way over our head if we even began to try to understand/deal with all the issues the Pope must deal with world wide.
We need to not criticize the Holy Father; but pray that he always do the right thing. The right thing may not be what you think it is, but what God thinks it is.

Published by: Lucius
Freehold, NJ 02/17/2009 12:34 AM EST

The Holy Father should not meet with Nancy Pelosi. She has given scandal to the Church and the Nation with her 100% pro-abortion rating.

Published by: Dave Rigg
Scottsdale, Arizoan, USA 02/17/2009 12:30 AM EST

Hopefully the Holy Father will fully explain that, though her continuing complicity, many innocent souls have been murdered by abortion, and she has culpability from her words, actions, and inactions. Without complete conversion, excommunication would seem to be in order.

Published by: Michele O'Hearn
Houston, Texas 02/17/2009 12:30 AM EST

I hope the Holy Father gives her the option- she either announces to the world that she is wrong about abortion and contraception or she is excommunicated from the Church. I understand why he is meeting her- but I hope that if she doesn't admit her mistake and ask for forgiveness, he kicks her to the curb.

Published by: Wayne
Eugene, OR 02/17/2009 12:24 AM EST

EXCOMMUNICATE!!!!!

Published by: Mike Wolfe
Alexandria, Va USA 02/17/2009 12:22 AM EST

If the Pope is truly a man of God, as all Catholics believe, then he has no choice but to excommunicate her for her support of abortion on demand and homosexual rights. We will see.

Published by: TT
L.A., Ca. 02/17/2009 12:22 AM EST

This should come as no surprise. The Catholic Church in the US has been politically active to legalize the illegals in a selfish effort to bolster its congregation. Pelosi and the Democraps have a similar goal with different motives. As they say, the enemy or my enemy is my friend....and their joint enemy would be the citizens of the U.S.

Published by: Jeff
Sacramento, CA 02/17/2009 12:19 AM EST

Seriously people, Nancy Pelosi is one of the most powerful people in the world. If the Holy Father wants to be relevant to world affairs he can't refuse to meet with everybody who takes a different opinion.

Published by: JH
MD 02/17/2009 12:18 AM EST

Since when is Nancy Pelosi the Secretary of State?

Published by: Tom
Melbourne, FL, USA 02/17/2009 12:18 AM EST

Didn’t Jesus visit with sinners? How can the Pope do otherwise? Let’s pray that the Lord touches her heart through this visit.

Published by: itztamz
San Jose, CA 02/17/2009 12:18 AM EST

'Ardent catholic'-- Oh except for that silly right to life thing...

Published by: Julie
Miami FL 02/17/2009 12:18 AM EST

Disappointed that she gets an audience after her distorted statements on abortion and the catholic church.

Published by: Jon
Wichita, KS, USA 02/17/2009 12:15 AM EST

So whose father is this Mr. Benedict? Some on here say that he's the holy father? Interesting.... hmmm.

Published by: Tom Wyckoff
Kenilworth New Jersey 02/17/2009 12:11 AM EST

She's meeting him in his capacity as head of state of the Vatican? She's not the president, vice president, secretary of state or the ambassador, she can't!
The Holy Father granting her an audience is a slap in the face of every true Catholic in the world.

Published by: Dixie Meyers
Kalamazoo, Michigan USA 02/17/2009 12:05 AM EST

Wait and See, Wait and See. This Woman will be talked to between him, and her alone. Perhaps, she will go to confession, and seek guidance, given she's on his territory. Yet, she doesn't realize it, but her soul,and eternal salvation, is his business, and those she influences, is his business. We have to pray for him, to do the right thing. He's old. Remember that, he will measure his words. Read between the lines. He prayed for 'wisdom' for Israel, when they were acting rashingly. He will with God's Grace do right. We have to pray he acts as Pope, not on his own opinion.

Published by: Susan
Westminster Md 02/17/2009 12:03 AM EST

Pelosi is a very arrogant woman. She will do as she pleases. I only hope that the Pope will reverse his acceptance of her. And instead send a message. She needs a good dose of embarresment.

Published by: Larry Montgomery
Lakeport, California 02/16/2009 11:51 PM EST

Have not been able to find anywhere who the other Democrats are that went with Nancy on this junket. Can anyone help? She edoesn't respond to emails.

Published by: Marta
North Texas 02/16/2009 11:45 PM EST

At a time when we are all told that we have to cut back on expenses due to these hard economic times, this disgraceful woman is making a totally unnecessary trip to Italy. Isn't great that the US Congress has the nerve to dictate to bank executives about their unnecessary spending while its OK for them to do likewise. What hypocrites!

Published by: Benster
Bonham, Texas USA 02/16/2009 11:40 PM EST

This has got to be one of the more difficult tasks for Pope Benedict to stomach.

Published by: Chris Calvert
Springport, MI 02/16/2009 11:39 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

The only reason the Nancy Pelosi should be granted an audience with the Pope is for an excommunication for her continue support of murdering innocent unborn children.

An audience would only be seen as increasing her status among the gullible people of this country.

Published by: J. Alejandro
Estados Unidos USA 02/16/2009 11:39 PM EST

How can this be? Meeting with someone who is a clear source of moral scandal? Some whoe just recently expressed herself in favor of eugenics??!!!

Published by: Jim O'Shea
New York, NY 02/16/2009 11:38 PM EST

People who write on this board, do not read scripture.

This one issue is not the ONLY thing our church is about.

Published by: Mike Mundy
Houston, TX USA 02/16/2009 11:31 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

The Holy Father should Ex-Communicate Pelosi ON THE SPOT!

Now that would make headlines.

Published by: Hayes Murphy
Bristol, WI 02/16/2009 11:30 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

While I believe in tolerance, this woman is making a mockery of the Catholic faith. I sincerely pray the pope will publicly set this woman on the straight and narrow, and not allow her to make this just a photo op. I will be saddened and dissappointed if Papa Razi bows to her.

Published by: Anna Hollier
Lafayette, LA, USA 02/16/2009 11:26 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

An "ardent Catholic"? Is that the definition of someone who condones abortion and uses our tax money to pay for it? She even tries to say that the Catholic Church once allowed abortion. Shame on her! I hope that the Pope sets her straight and I think he will.

Published by: Uri
New York, New York 02/16/2009 11:23 PM EST

Rate: Good

The Catholic Church teaches that abortion is wrong (which it is), but then the Pope himself gives an award to a woman who has spent her entire political life voting for and supporting a radical abortion agenda. I don't get it. And the last time I checked, Rep. Pelosi also supports gay rights. Where does the Catholic Church stand on that issue?

Ephesians 2:8 – 9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God; it is not from works, so no one may boast.”

Published by: Al
Vallejo, CA. USA 02/16/2009 11:23 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Bottom line: Pelosi is only after a "free trip" to Italy. Tax payer dollars to fly the USAF jet and pay back her liberal supporters in the last election. Next time she crows about "global warming", let's here her explain this trip. God Bless the Holy Father and his efforts to "convert" Ms. Pelosi.

Published by: puzzled
Baltimore, MD, USA 02/16/2009 11:21 PM EST

I am puzzled by the incompleteness of this article. Will this "audience" be public or private? One suspects there will be NO photo op and that there will be private, and very direct, admonishment conveyed.

Published by: Traveller
San Dieg, Ca 02/16/2009 11:21 PM EST

Absolutley Insane.

Published by: George B
Stafford Va 02/16/2009 11:20 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

I would like for some form of public embarrassment for Pelosi, but I suspect it will not happen.

Published by: H. Mueller
Florida/USA 02/16/2009 11:19 PM EST

What happened to the touch of my once much-admired School Sisters of Notre Dame in Maryland? How could these nuns have taught both Rep. Nancy D'Alessandro Pelosi and Sen. Barbara Makulski at The Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore and had them become such dismal failures as mature Catholics??

Published by: Dick Sicario
Las Vegas, NV USA 02/16/2009 11:16 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

Why is he meeting with this pro-abortion so called catholic? This pope is so out of touch with reality its almost as scary as having a Marxist Socialist President.

Published by: uri
new york, new york 02/16/2009 11:11 PM EST

Just like all the Muslims who say that Islam is a peaceful religion, but then fail to condemn any acts of terrorism. How is this any different from the Catholic Church, which teaches that abortion is wrong, but then the Pope himself gives an award to a woman who has spent her entire political life voting for and supporting a radical abortion agenda. And the last time I checked, Rep. Pelosi also supports gay rights. Where does the Catholic Church stand on that issue?

Ephesians 2:8 – 9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God; it is not from works, so no one may boast.”

Published by: K McBride
Falmouth, Maine USA 02/16/2009 11:11 PM EST

It is such a relief to know Pelosi is NOT receiving an award from the Pope.

How demoralizing it is that so many of our politicians are Catholic in name only, and only for getting votes!!! Pelosi is NO exception.

Published by: Tricia
TX 02/16/2009 11:08 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

A couple of things to remember: the current Adminstration has already made it clear that they do not welcome PBXVIs opinion/advice...they (incl. Obama) are adverse to religion, period. Pelosi may soften the relations, or could at least be open to welcome our dear Holy Father to the US in the future (whereas Obama would definately not).

When Bush was asked what he saw when he looked into PBXVIs eyes, he answered "God".

I pray that Pelosi will be used as an instrument (and that she'll retract her blatant opposition to the Church and her teachings) and I pray that she'll see God when she meets PBXVI.

Published by: jim
henderson nv 02/16/2009 11:07 PM EST

Nancy Pelosi is just one of the many catholic politicians who are in conflict with church dogma and doctrine. They should all be told to change or risk ex communication which would be a terrible negative for them to over come with catholic voters in 2010.It was the Catholic vote that put Obama over the top and for that I am truly ashamed of the American Catholic church for not obeying the magesterium they serve under. It comes down to choice. Do they want a far left America or the Catholic church. They cannot have it both ways. The church is supposed to change the culture not the other way around.

Published by: Lisa H
KS United States 02/16/2009 11:07 PM EST

Pray!! Perhaps Nancy Pelosi will receive the great grace of conversion and repentence for her sins. I am certainly not greater than she is, and God cares about me, I know God cares about her too! Bless you Pope Benedict XVI, for your care of all your flock.

Published by: Juanito Verde
Santa Barbara,CA,USA 02/16/2009 11:02 PM EST

Have I seen too many Bond films? I wish he had a lever to pull after telling her to recant and her refusing to do so. Geronimo!

Published by: bill
Ohio 02/16/2009 11:01 PM EST

Catholics or Christians who support pro abortion candidates or abortion "rights" or the practice of abortion are kidding themselves about thier commitment to God. Pelosi, like all who support abortion, if our faith is real, will have a lot to answer for some day.

Published by: Sam
Archer Hill FL USA 02/16/2009 10:59 PM EST

I thought the bureaucrats in the Vatican were great politicians, but they've been rolled by Nancy "the Joker" Pelosi. She gets an award by a secular Italian group in Rome, then dares the Vatican to not receive her - and they fold!
I was so proud of the US Catholic Church when they forced John Kerry to wander around the country, looking for places, usually college towns, to campaign on Sunday, where his staff had received assurances Kery would not be denied Communion.

Published by: Ernie Kluft
Dallas TX USA 02/16/2009 10:57 PM EST

I sincerely hope the Holy Father will make a strong statement condemning her positions on abortion, gay marriage and contraception. It is disgraceful for her to call herself an ardent Catholic and do what she does.

Published by: Pat
Fresno, CA 02/16/2009 10:55 PM EST

Rate: Regular

Just another example of the hypocrisy of the Catholic Church. No wonder so many former Catholics left the faith. Why are you surprised?!? Kennedys. Grace Kelly. John Kerry. US Italian Mafia
Altar boys. Don't expect anything else this week. Hypocrisy.

Published by: Jerry Coufal
Littleton, CO 02/16/2009 10:54 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

We can only hope the Holy Father will personally excommunicate Nancy Pelosi from the Roman Catholic Church at the time he meets with her.

Published by: Mike Mattson
Waxhaw, NC, USA 02/16/2009 10:50 PM EST

I pray that the Holy Father takes advantage of the meeting with Pelosi to proclaim the teaching of the Catholic Church on Abortion.

Published by: Ronin
Wisconsin,USA 02/16/2009 10:46 PM EST

If she speaks with the Pope and he does not tell her to repent of abortion or be publicly ex-communicated, then the Catholic Church is finished due to an Anti-Pope impostor.

Published by: robert
wooster/oh/usa 02/16/2009 10:43 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Catholics, where is your faith. You actually think that a wicked person of such stature could outsmart the Holy Spirit and the Holy Father in the same day. She will be crushed under the weight of her own iniquities. Pray for her.

Published by: Patrick Lappert
United States 02/16/2009 10:38 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

The Holy Father is her pastor. Anyone who thinks that His Holiness won't use the occasion to correct her does not know the man.

Published by: cm1515
melbourne/fl/usa 02/16/2009 10:34 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

She is THE most irresponsible elected clown and the Pope should chastise her for her multitude of sins. What an arrogant woman.

Published by: K C Leistner
Junction City, KS USA 02/16/2009 10:33 PM EST

Please read Luke 5:27-32 or Matthew 9:9-13. Perhaps, Mrs Pelosi will be called to repentance. I will pray for her conversion and for the Holy Father's success in his meeting with her.

Published by: Al Gonquin
Camp Hill, PA 02/16/2009 10:29 PM EST

Hopefully, the Holy Father will be able to exorcise her demons...

Published by: Michael Patrick
Little Rock, AR 02/16/2009 10:27 PM EST

Jesus' representative on Earth is here to save souls not appease.
People who believe Satin's lies about this meeting are victims of weak faith. Pelosi is an agent of Satin and the Holy Father is an agent of the God...We know wins in the end! May God have mercy on her soul.

Published by: Becky Woods
Las Cruces, NM 02/16/2009 10:27 PM EST

Rate: Regular

First 40 years of protecting pedophiles, now decades of tolerating abortion advocates just because they're liberal Democrats. The Church is as corrupt as our government.

Published by: Jim
Cincinnati/ohio/USA 02/16/2009 10:27 PM EST

She needs to be excommunicate from the chruch. She not Catholic. She is a heretic. To bad it isn't 200 years ago.

Published by: IraqWarVet
Spokane, WA 02/16/2009 10:23 PM EST

Rate: Good

My won't this be a crowning achievement for the wicked one...Next, the pope will be donating to Bill Clinton's library.
What hypocrisy, I think god must be on holiday.

Published by: Chris
Indiana 02/16/2009 10:19 PM EST

There is nothing wrong with the Pope seeing Nancy Pelosi. She could use the wrap against the knuckles. I just would make sure she got no photo op.

If she is there just for that, which we all know she is, deny her that. It is an excellent penance for one who has strayed so far from the church.

Published by: Curtis Sheftall
Altoona, PA USA 02/16/2009 10:18 PM EST

I trust the Pope desires salvation for all including Nancy Pelosi and therefore I have no problem with Benedict meeting her. On the other hand, Pelosi has elected to place herself in a position where she will have to choose between acting on the Truth as she will hear it, or heaping firey coals on herself by causing scandal. It is Pelosi who has put herself in a pivotal position with God and Satan, not Benedict.

Published by: Titus
Olney,MD USA 02/16/2009 10:17 PM EST

As a practicing Catholic, I cannot understand why the Holy Father would meet with Ms Pelosi. I spend countless hours explaining the Church's position on abortion to many people within and without of the Church who struggle with the Church's teaching, and at this moment I am trying to determine a way to explain this. Ms Pelosi who is a political disgrace for the Catholic Church will get what she wants out of this visit - more political mileage. I cannot help but think what St Paul would say to the Holy Father about letting this happen. I am quite certain of what he would say to Ms. Pelosi. With great sadness, I believe that the Holy Father should consider stepping down. For now the hope he professes is being drained from this member of the Body of Christ. I pray that Jesus will help all of us understand this unfortunate decision.

Published by: Teresa
NY, USA 02/16/2009 10:16 PM EST

Well, the democrats are planning to start destroying EMBRYOS in a quest for health, and very possibly a false 'eternal life' next. I fear this will be a positive and misleading photo op for her and some other heretical politicians.

Published by: MB
Louisiana 02/16/2009 10:15 PM EST

Pelosi an "ardent Catholic??"

Yeah, and if my grandmother had wheels she'd be a wagon!

She is deserved only of Excommunication, she has not repented her sins, she publicly pays for and supports the killing of the innocent, she is an embarassment to AMerican and the Church.

I feel sorry for her.

mrb

Published by: Laurie
Needham, Ma. 02/16/2009 10:14 PM EST

I think that the Pope should have a private audience with Pelosi.s She needs the guidance that hopefully he can give her. That's his job to make sure she understands the teachings of the Church and that she must 'live her faith.'

Published by: Jay
Madison/Wis/USSA 02/16/2009 10:09 PM EST

I'm hoping Ms. Pelosi confesses some of her sins to the Pope and I'm also hoping he has words of advice for her. There was word before the election that any Catholic that supported abortion would be thrown out of the Catholic church, maybe he's making it official.

Published by: kathy
california 02/16/2009 10:07 PM EST

Will they discuss her position on abortion?

Published by: Lorayne Ford
Palm Desert, CA USA 02/16/2009 10:04 PM EST

"Jesus, I trust in you"

Published by: terrence hagen
downers grove, illinois 02/16/2009 10:03 PM EST

I understand the "Head of State" distinction but still wish the Pope would refuse to meet with her. To be pro-abortion is one thing but to try to justify it the way she did last yr made it even worse. I wish the Pope would tell her that he will meet with her but he wont pull any punches. If she wants to go ahead on that basis, so be it. I would love to see him excommunicate her, Biden, Durbin. Kennedy, and the other so-called Catholic Dems in Congress who support abortion and the FOCA.

Published by: JCinOBX
OBX 02/16/2009 09:57 PM EST

Pelosi must be taking the matter of meeting with da Pope relatively seriously; she dyed her hair back to brunette so she could look halfway Northern Italian. HEr dye job won't be able to hide her support for abortion, though.
I hope the Pope ex-comms her. And I ain't even Catholic myself.

Published by: daniel gannon
rockville, md usa 02/16/2009 09:57 PM EST

What a genius. Do you think that this pope is going to back down from Nancy Pelosi? This is one of the greatest Popes in history. Look at his gentleness. Look at how he converts with kindness yet never backs down. Isn't this what we as Christians are supposed to do. Aren't we supposed to reach out to the non-believers. Aren't we commanded to love the ignorant?

Published by: Les Lenhart
Hermitage, Pa 02/16/2009 09:56 PM EST

The Pope is making a grave mistake even talking to this evil women, Pelosi...It goes to show you how messed up this planet is... She should be thrown out of the church.

Published by: Gualberto
Denver, CO, USA 02/16/2009 09:52 PM EST

E-X-C-O-M-M-U-N-I-C-A-T-E

Published by: chris Pfaff
Greensboro, NC USA 02/16/2009 09:50 PM EST

Ms. Pelosi has condoned the murder by abortion of over 1 million children. She should be excommunicated personally by the Pope for her reprehensible statements and behavior.

Published by: matt jilek
Lincoln, NE 02/16/2009 09:50 PM EST

Between this and the Catholic Bishop Council giving over $8 million to ACORN, I am shaking about the direction the Catholic Church has embraced.

Published by: Robert Lockwood
Lafayette, CA 02/16/2009 09:44 PM EST

The predictions given to us at Fatima become more accurate every day. I think it is evident tyhat God has had enough of this world.

Published by: Donna
Woodstock, Ga USA 02/16/2009 09:44 PM EST

She is not worthy.

Published by: Paulski
Berlin,NJ,USA 02/16/2009 09:42 PM EST

The catholic church and Nancy agree on many issues such as socialism even though its condemned by Pius X. All the Bishops in the North East pushed the Obama platform and said he agreed with the church on all things life except for abortion. You know the seamless garment smoke. Bush was not pro-life they said because he used war to defend the nation. As long as the church promotes morons for priests and bishop, we are doomed. Say the Rosary and keep the faith.

Published by: cathie
cincinnati oh 02/16/2009 09:42 PM EST

I am a Presbyterian and I personally look to respect all of the Pope's views the sanctify of all human life, from birth to death.Too bad Nancy Pelosi who has gigantic power over US policy calls herself Catholic with no repercussions for the horrendous anti-life programs and positions she influences.

Published by: Greg
Nashville, TN 02/16/2009 09:42 PM EST

I believe that Jesus spent much time with tax collectors, prostitutes and other sinners in his day and was ostracized for it. Give Il Papa the chance to be His love.

Published by: C. Stever
Grand Rapids MI 49525 02/16/2009 09:38 PM EST

Amen to Alan's comment.

Published by: Mary Messana
Milford, MI, USA 02/16/2009 09:35 PM EST

It certainly helps to see that so many other share my disgust and sadness that someone who so dishonors our faith should be allowed to meet with the Holy Father. How sad, that because she has obtained a position of power, she gets the opporunity that us faithfilled, church followers would give anything to get. I have prayed every night that God will use this opportunity to not glorify her actions, but remind her that if possible, she and all of her followers who blantantly voice opposition to our core beliefs should be ex communicated from the church! Pray for the unborn this woman's message is aimed to destroy and for our leadership to stand up for God's word.

Published by: Al
Conover, NC USA 02/16/2009 09:33 PM EST

How can she profess to be a Catholic or an American. We are endowed by our Creator with LIFE, etc. She is an "ardent" supporter of abortion at all levels of life, the use of our taxes for funding abortion in this country and overseas. She is in favor of same sex marriage. The Pope should not give her an audience that will help her and other anti-life and anti-God advocates to get more the 52% of the Catholic vote in this country.

Published by: Fritz
VA 02/16/2009 09:31 PM EST

Let's trust the Pope on this. He is our shepherd on Earth. Like all shepherds, he sometimes has to meet the wolves head on.

Popes have been confronting the representatives of various evils since the time of Peter. Benedict gets no reprieve from this duty. Let us pray that he reach her heart of stone and covert it to the Culture of Life.

Published by: james madison
u.s.a. 02/16/2009 09:29 PM EST

I can understand the desire to 'throw her under the bus' BUT God welcomes all sinners and as his representative, the Pope must do the same, public or private. On the other hand, having read the comments, I noticed that no one mentioned what happened when Pope John Paul II visited Poland and met with the then communist leaders and read them the riot act. They were literally shaking in their boots and they were out of power within a year. One can only pray that
Benedict will do the same considering all the fuss he is making over the comments of Bishop Williamson.

Published by: Greg
Henderson NV,USA 02/16/2009 09:24 PM EST

The Pope's credibility is seriously in question here. He should excommunicate Pelosi and the others who support abortion. This woman is a fraud. God is the ultimate judge and he won't separate Church and state.

Published by: Karen Mitchell
Birmingham, MI USA 02/16/2009 09:23 PM EST

I could not be more discouraged that the Pope has chosen to give Ms. Pelosi an audience (and photo op) regardless of her standing in the U.S. government. She uses her position to mock the teachings of the Catholic Church, promote abortion on demand and lead others to sin. The pro-life faithful have been waiting for someone to take strong
action against the Catholic pro-abortion politicians who blatantly disregard the call to refrain from Communion. If the Holy Father is truly trying to save souls, then he would be better served by releasing a statement condemning her actions so that others will not be led astray by a woman so well funded by the abortion industry.

Published by: Elayne Cipolla
Sewell, NJ USA 02/16/2009 09:22 PM EST

Remember, she, too is a child of God.Pray for her and all the others who push the "culture of death" agenda. Jesus came not to condemn but to save. We, if we wish to be known as His disciples, must pray for her conversion and not wish for her condemnation. This is commanded by our blessed Savior in the Sermon on the Mount. God will deal with her in His own time and in His own way. Our work should be with those who are the victims of abortion...providing nonjudgmental alternatives and support for those girls and women who've had abortions to find peace with themselves and God. And to help those with unexpected pregnancies to keep their children or support them if they choose to give their babies up for adoption.

Published by: Raymond Belair
Bronxville, NY 02/16/2009 09:19 PM EST

His Holiness should use this oportunity to correct, even publicly correct, Ms. Pelosi. If he does not use this opportunity, he will himself be used by her. She would use this audience, if silent on the matters of evil, to implicitly advance the notion that the Church's teachings comdemning gravely evil activities are really only optional. In that case, an opportunity will not only have been lost, but great damage will be done.
We can only pray.

Published by: Mauricio Villablanca
Los Angeles, USA 02/16/2009 09:18 PM EST

What's she gonna visit next? A nursery? Please...

Published by: David
San Diego 02/16/2009 09:14 PM EST

Get over it. She is a head of state. This is a world of politics. Of course the Holy Father is Pro Life and she is anti Life. The Pope has an opportunity to tell her to mend her ways. What is it with you militants, you would have no catholics ever talk to a person opposing views. Did you ever hear of the word evangelization or apostolate with others?

Published by: tim
st. louis, mo 02/16/2009 09:13 PM EST

to all my brethren (Catholic and not)

We should all be reminded that Jesus himself told us that he without sin should cast the first stone. The pope should recieve her. Listen to her explanations for her positions on abortion and contraception. After vetting the position, come down with the appropriate response. If she steadfastly refuses to adhere to her "ardent" beliefs then she excommunicates herself. The pope does not excommunicate, only the individual through their actions can have that happen.

Pray that she asks for forgiveness and returns a fervent Christian....

Published by: Mariyn deMayo
Monroe,ct06468 USA 02/16/2009 09:02 PM EST

Dear Holy Father, It is my prayer that you will explain to Mrs Pelosi that she supports the killing of the unborn.She is doing great harm. We must continue our prayers to end abortion..

Published by: Patrick Curry
Irvine, CA USA 02/16/2009 09:01 PM EST

The Pope should excommunicate Pelosi for her continue support of abortion. She is an unconscionable child murderer.

Published by: Judy Pantaleo
Albrightsville/PA/USA 02/16/2009 08:58 PM EST

I'm under the impression that Nancy Pelosi's actions have already de facto excommunicated her. The Holy Father may remind her that she should not call herself Catholic until she has repented and changed her stand on abortion and related topics. As the vicar of Christ, and in His Love, may Pope Benedict soften her heart. Amen.

Published by: Tertium Quid
Yoknapatawpha County 02/16/2009 08:51 PM EST

He is her pastor, and even though her sins are many, he will probably keep his pastoral care private. He might even scold her privately, but I doubt he will make a public spectacle.

Published by: Robert Shea
USA 02/16/2009 08:41 PM EST

How dare you give an audience to this deceptive woman. She HATES US !

I'm ashamed that you would even consider her to be seen with the Holy Father.

She thinks Abortion is the answer to the worlds economy.

...and you are going to give her an audience. YOU NEED TO SHAME HER !!!

Published by: none
va 02/16/2009 08:40 PM EST

So I am assuming their will be no second visit; His conversation can go only one way with her, "You are wrong supporting abortion, you must change and understand what is right in the eyes of God" --- So she will hear him but not change and therefore the next time (if they meet) she should be excommunicated by him, or her local church in Cali.

Published by: Rick
Suwanee/GA/USA 02/16/2009 08:37 PM EST

Maybe the Holy Father can perform an exorcism on Pelosi and rid her of the liberal demons that possess her and give her understanding what Democracy is all about.

Published by: michelle hellgeth
marietta, ga 02/16/2009 08:32 PM EST

Nancy Pelosi is the ultimate shame to this nation and to think the Holy Father is buying into her narcissistic personality is disgusting. Pelosi is taking us down the road to communism, I guess that's why she wears red so frequently.

Published by: Jane Aderhold
Miami, Florida, USA 02/16/2009 08:31 PM EST

The Pope should not even be on the same platform with Policy. She will use this photo-0p to show he approves of abortion. American Catholics are outraged! Please do not meet with her.

Published by: David Delacroix
Washington, DC 02/16/2009 08:20 PM EST

Let's see: If it's "OK" for the Vatican and the Catholic establishment to get their knickers n a twist over a Bishop's Holocaust opinions, then it should formally and publicly excommunicate Pelosi for her direct assistance in procuring abortions. Blood is on her hands. If she is NOT excommunicated, then it's just one more brick in the wall of Roman Catholicism that has been taken down.

Published by: David Zych
Shepherdstown, WV, USA 02/16/2009 08:09 PM EST

I'm not a catholic but I still find it amazing that Benedict would agree to see this "ardent" catholic who, at best, is a "laid back" catholic. Hope he can talk some sense into her.

Published by: Robert
Marshall, Texas, USA 02/16/2009 08:09 PM EST

We could all pray that Nancy could have an immediate conversion and change of heart, and publicly renounce her previous positions. It would mean an end to her power and would rock the democrat party. We pray she has the courage to listen to the Holy Father.

Published by: Peteo
NH 02/16/2009 08:07 PM EST

Please Papa, trample this snake.

Published by: Tom Rafferty
Exton, Pa 02/16/2009 07:59 PM EST

I am embarrassed to be Catholic today. Pelosi FUNDS abortions in the U.S. and Internationally. This meeting is the equivalent of meeting Hitler's Banker. They both are responsible for the death of millions so you make the connection. Its quite easy. A baby is a life. 40 Million babies have been killed. Pelosi FUNDS that holocaust. Strong words are not enough to rebuke her. I want action from Pope Benedict and meeting with her was NOT what I had in mind. She should be excommunicated.

Published by: Bob Strohl
Sparland Il US 02/16/2009 07:53 PM EST

Holy Father and excummunicate her and send the message to others like Kennedy and Kerry that to be Catholic you have to abide by the laws of the church. Many on the fence Catholics are watching. Which side of the fence will they fall Holy Father.

Published by: vinko
Boulder, CO USA 02/16/2009 07:51 PM EST

The Holy Father needs to perform an exorcism ob this sinner.

Published by: Colleen C.
Greenville, SC USA 02/16/2009 07:36 PM EST

All I have to say is:
Let her have it, Holy Father!!! I really hope she learns what an "ardent Catholic" is.

Published by: Charlene
Hooksett n.h. 02/16/2009 07:36 PM EST

"Jesus I trust in You"
God will have His way!!!
Our beloved Papa Ben will be led by the Holy Spirit.
As an ardent practicing catholic, I pray for Ms Pelosi eternal salvation.

Published by: michael-brendan lujan
clovis, ca usa 02/16/2009 07:00 PM EST

Look, Pelosi is not Hitler. And if the People of San Francisco and the US in general were more pious, then the assumption is Pelosi, a representative of the people, would be Pro-life too.

Published by: Geremia
United States of America 02/16/2009 06:56 PM EST

Hopefully they will deny her communion. If they do not, it only would validate her pro-abortion stance.

Published by: Frank
Stanfordville, NY 02/16/2009 06:41 PM EST

We must all have confidence that the Holy Father will do what the Archbishop of SanFrancisco has not done. We must pray that she be "educated" as to the sinfulness of her positions on Life and Contraception. Afterall, her salvation should be of optimum concern to all practicing Catholics.

Published by: David Wanat
Redding CA USA 02/16/2009 06:38 PM EST

I find the protests very much alike to the claims that the lifting of the SSPX excommunications "endorsed" Holocaust Denial.

That the Pope is required to meet with her as a "leader of state" is a protocol, not an approval of what she has said or done.

Charity certainly requires us to have proof before accusing the Pope of selling out the faith.

Published by: Renee
Jacksonville, OR, USA 02/16/2009 06:14 PM EST

This is exactly what needs to be done. The Holy father must meet with her. It is what Jesus would have done. Talk to her and try to get a change of heart. After that she is on her own.

Published by: Nick Farrah
Concord, CA, USA 02/16/2009 05:58 PM EST

Reposting Bonnie Quirk's comment because she captured it perfectly:

I believe that Benedict XVI is after Nancy Pelosi's soul, as all good shepherds should be. It is only through prayer and meeting with the sinner, that God is able to move in the hearts of people. Let's pray for Pope Benedict that the Holy Spirit will move through him, to enlighten her to the errors of her ways.

Published by: patricia
martindale/tx/usa 02/16/2009 05:46 PM EST

remember, Jesus ate with horrible sinners...

the Pope is not meeting with this woman because he agrees with her! He's a good shepherd, seeking a lost sheep! If she's not going to heed his voice, that's her problem, not his, but he has to try....

Published by: Jim
CA 02/16/2009 05:26 PM EST

We should all wait to see what comes out of this meeting. However, I don't view Mrs. Pelosi as one of God's more intelligent creatures and don't believe she'll be able to grasp anything Pope Benedixt XVI explains to her. I only hope that if the media does cover this, that the pope is quoted accurately so others can repeatedly explain it to her at a later time. Excommunication would be good, but I doubt this visit will be much more than fraternal correction. ...and possibly an exorcism.

Published by: Bonnie
Denver, CO USA 02/16/2009 04:40 PM EST

Perhaps while some people believe that for Benedict XVI to see Pelosi is in some manner "agreeing" with her stance, is by far not giving the Pope enough credit for the holy man that he is. Jesus taught all for our (collective) salvation, but as the Good Shepard, He "sought to find" those who were lost. For those that don't like Pelosi - pray for her and pray that perhaps His Holiness can somehow touch her heart so she can find some "conversion" in her opinions so she can truly see the error of her self-made "truth's". If Pelosi could accept and protect all the respect that we as Catholic's believe for all of life, most certainly she could be in a wonderful position to help keep our country in a true moral direction. Can you not see that her visiting with the Pope is perhaps a gift of the Holy Spirit working in mysterious ways? Pray for her, perhaps she can be called to be a servant for the Lord. Let us not judge the intent of the Pope, surely God will work through him.

Published by: Jack Angelo Territo
Buffalo,ny USA 02/16/2009 04:07 PM EST

Pope, i'mm 76 years old , never miss mass, say Rosary nightly, try not to sin, have written over a thousand letters to 4 Popes, 10 Cadrinals, 50 bishops, and NEVER RECIEVED AN ANSWER , MADAM PELOSI is pro-everything homosexual, pro-abortion, and partial birth abortion,,pro-pornograpghy, and gets an audience with the Pope, I gueSs ill start SINNING, MAYBE I'LL GET A answer back from my mai.?? i doubt it!

Published by: Terence
Albuquerque/NM/USA 02/16/2009 03:55 PM EST

I think the Pope needs to meet with her because he is a head of State. But I think their meeting should be private with no photo opportunities. Then he could explain Catholic teaching on the relevant issues to her. The Vatican then needs to come out with a statement once and for all to all Catholic politicians that because of their public position if they intentially speak against or vote against Church teaching they should be excommunicated and disqualified from receiving the Holy Eucharist.

Published by: Mike Austen
Pembroke, ON, Canada 02/16/2009 03:43 PM EST

The only picture of Pope Benedict and Nancy Pelosi suitable for the world to see is her kissing Benedict's ring with the caption: "Pope gives highest ranking Italian American Catholic scathing judgement of her actions to increase abortion and contraception in America."

Published by: Sam
USA 02/16/2009 03:40 PM EST

I too believe that Pope Benedict, as supreme Shepherd of the Catholic Church,will meet with Pelosi and speak to her about her pro abortion stand. We have to pray hard for this meeting, that the Holy Spirit will bring about a conversion in Nancy Pelosi's soul. We should not condemn the Pope who is Father/Shepherd of all. Christ Himself met with sinners and in His presence, because of His unconditional love, were brought into the fold, into His love,and then followed Him even at the cost of their lives. Please, let us all pray in hope and in trust the the Pope, inspired by the Holy Spirit, understands very well what he is doing in regards to Nancy Pelosi. Sam

Published by: Margaret Keller
Baltimore/MD/USA 02/16/2009 03:19 PM EST

I hope Pope Benedict XVI and the Holy Spirit enlighten Nancy Pelosi's mind and soul about abortion.And if she is Catholic go to confession.

Published by: Francis Xavier T
Washington, D.C. 02/16/2009 03:18 PM EST

i am so blessed to read all your comments. Almost all of you are right, especially Bonnie Quirke. I pray that Jacqueline Kruger will not change her heart to be a devote ardent Catholic. In the gospels, Lord Jesus spends a great deals of time with sinners.
Excommunication was never Lord Jesus' idea. Please never give up hope on your Church, even sometimes we have bad leaders. We will see how the Holy Father make the tears out of Pelosi. Hopefully, it is not just for a moment but for everlasting in her heart. Let's continue to fight against abortion with one heart, one issue at a time.

Published by: PAUL A. NALTY
METAIRIE, LA. USA 02/16/2009 03:16 PM EST

Blessed Mother Teresa met with Bill Clinton but refused to have a photop with him. Pelosi is grandstanding with her lack of faith and seeking to use the Holy Father. I just hope he gives her a moment of teaching. She did not get it at Trinity College!!

Published by: Eileen
Largo, Fla., USA 02/16/2009 03:03 PM EST

I am reserving comment on this audience until it is over. Either, Pelosi recants her position on contraceptives, abortion, euthanasia, stem cell research or she is "out the door" of the Catholic Church that I belong to. If she is given a free pass then I will make known how that will affect my support. Babies are dying because of her "stimulus bill".

Published by: Francis Xavier T
Washington, D.C. 02/16/2009 03:00 PM EST

The Pro-life will not get enough support from Americans if they keep mixing the abortion issue with the contraception and the embryonic stem cell issues. It will become an ideologie warfare. It has become a matter of opinion. It has nothing to do with saving lives. We need to make all the politicians, especially the Catholic one such as Nancy Pelosi and Joseph Biden to focus on only one issue---Abortion is a murderous act. It is a criminal offense. Do not let the politicians use family planning, contraception, and embryonic stem cell to gain points for popular votes. The Enclycical Letter of Human Vitae (all about conception)by the Supreme Pontiff Paul VI 40 years ago has made the pro-life battle so much harder or almost impossible to fight. In fact, the Catholic Church is loosing Her position as a moral authority because all these none sense popes.

Published by: Claudia
Buzzards Bay/MA/USA 02/16/2009 02:33 PM EST

I would like to see her publicly excommunicated if she still refuses to follow the Vatican on matters of abortion, birth control, etc. As much as we are to educate people who are pro-choice to help them see the truth, Pelosi is more than aware of the truth and mocks the Church by her support of anti-life programs.

Published by: Mary Christine
Dana Point/CA/USA 02/16/2009 02:32 PM EST

I am praying for Pope Benedict to have a sincere "Come to Jesus "meeting with Nancy.

Published by: Sharon Walker
Lititz, PA, USA 02/16/2009 02:25 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

The Holy Father MUST give the Faithful of this Nation an open, honest explanation of why he is agreeing to an audience with Nancy Pelosi, who is ONLY using this visit for a public relations opportunity. This audience will be used to the advantage of the Pro-Abortion activists. Even in his position as a head of state, his audience will be seen as a consent of Pelosi's social stance, which is a blatant contradiction to the teaching of the Church. God Save Us!

Published by: bjcass
mooresville,nc 02/16/2009 02:24 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Words are inadequate to express my deep disappointment that Pope Benedict XVI will meet with Pelosi.Her arrogant and defiant disregard for so many of the basic tenets of our Catholic Faith is disheartening.I want to understand and I want to be charitable but it is difficult when all reasonable evidence suggests Pelosi operates exclusively in measuring political calculus.If it fits her elastic moral template,that`s a side benefit but not a priority.I really fear Pelosi will use a Vatican visit to posture that the abortion issue is not so critical to our Holy Father and Church Hierarchy that she is not enthusiastically welcomed as the "ardent" Catholic that she claims to be.I`m really having trouble with this visit.

Published by: Alan
Fredericksburg/VA/USA 02/16/2009 02:22 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Great! Maybe she'll listen to the Holy Father when he says Abortion is wrong. Or, better yet, he could excommunicate her while she's there. That would make a great photo op.

Published by: Adrien
Denton, TX 02/16/2009 01:53 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

This woman does not deserve to be on the same planet, much less the same room, as the Holy Father. I hope she doesn't try to persuade him to change position on abortion and contraception.

Published by: Dan
Santa Fe/NM/US 02/16/2009 01:51 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

She should get an award along with Joe Biden as highest ranking US political officials not in communion with Rome. Anything less would give the largely uneducated Catholic masses the wrong message. I pray our Pope sets her straight pivately---although I expect that to have no practical affect on this 'ardent' Catholic. How could it when she believes she does not need 'correction'. I hope Kimec is with this group so he can gwet his wish to be admonished by our Holy Father.

Published by: DK
PA 02/16/2009 01:50 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

I think the Vatican should decline an audience with this woman. She is a "Catholic", not a Catholic in good standing. I wonder if the Popes of old would have had an audience with Henry VIII after what he did. Doubtful. This woman should be excommunicated. If anything, if the Pope really wants to see her, then he should set her right. I wonder if she'll change after her meeting with him. I guess we'll have to see. Seems she puts politics before God as she smiles with that false smile that she always puts on everywhere.

Published by: Jacqueline Kruger
Florham Park, NJ 02/16/2009 01:47 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

If this silence with regard to the Hierarchy of the church not saying a word to ex-communicate Pelosi, Biden and the other so called Catholic politicians for scandolous heresy by virtue of participation and promotion continues, this will only serve to confuse millions of Catholics further with regards to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Many of us true Catholics obey the teachings of Christ and the Church and are baffled at the Church's lack of action to enforce the Church's Doctrine. Pelosi was invited months ago to discuss her stand with Archbishop Niederauer of San Francisco, but could not find the time. It is not as important as shoving a pork filled stimulus package down our throats that Congress had no time to read. Not only is she a pathetic so called Catholic, but she is a totally incompetent American-Italian politican. We may just consider another christian faith that is consistent in what they profess. Enough is enough. To pretend that there is hope for the lost at the expense of the obedient will cost the Catholic Church plenty in the long run.

Published by: Barbara Ritchey
Hudson, Ohio USA 02/16/2009 01:44 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

The very idea that the Pope would in any way condone Nancy Pelosi's ideals on abortion and what she is trying to force the American citizens to beleive is ok and to force us into higher taxes to pay for abortions is so repulsive to me and my family. The jpope needs to get with his advisors/bishops and get their recommendations.

Published by: Pam
Longmont, CO, USA 02/16/2009 01:40 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

This should be looked on as a very good opportunity for The Holy Father, our Pope to reacquaint Pelosi with the true position of the Catholic Church on the US government sanctioned mass murder of millions of unborn children. An opportunity for The Holy Father to look Pelosi in the eye and condemn her role in bringing about escalating The New American Holocaust and reminding her what she, as a Catholic and a christian has at risk.

Ideally, The Holy Father, as a much needed and long awaited sign of the Catholic Church's condemnation of abortion, would excommunicate Pelosi on the spot. The excommunication of a cafeteria Catholic, supporter of mass murder of unborn children and a disingenuous incompetent politician would be a strong message heard around the world. A message that no matter how hard Pelosi tried to spin doctor could not be undone.

Maybe then politicians such as Biden, Kennedy and the rest of the so-called Catholics in the US Congress may begin to become concerned with their souls and the life hereafter.

Hope and pray that The Holy Father will use this opportunity to take the necessary action to positively influence world opinion on the evil of abortion and The New American Holocaust.

Published by: Michael Hartin
Milwaukee,WI U.S.A. 02/16/2009 01:39 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

Please Holy Father tell this delusional sinner that she can only serve One Master. Pelosi needs to make a good confession and renounce the glamor, frame and power of her secular master for the love of Our Heavenly Father. If she "an ardent Catholic" than I am St. Michael The Archangel! I will continue to pray for all who support immorality against God's law written in our hearts.
Keep The Faith +++
Michael

Published by: Lily
SLC, UT USA 02/16/2009 01:36 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Maybe the Holy Father will be able to talk some sense into her. As for her award for achieving a high rank in the US government - big whoop. She probably had to sell her soul to get there.

Published by: Barbara Weeks
Chicago, IL, USA 02/16/2009 01:35 PM EST

Whether the Pope receives Pelosi as a head of state of not the American Press will present it as justification for her views. I pray for our Cardinals and Bishops. It's seems they can't get respect for their authority even from the Vatican.

Published by: Michael Johns
WA/USA 02/16/2009 01:31 PM EST

The world would likely be a much better place if we all practiced the faith we were given as children. Sometimes I wonder what the clergy's faithful parents think of their "political correctness" and watered down doctrines. Especially when it comes to contraception and important life issues. What are they afraid of?????

Published by: Bobette Pestana
Tampa FL US 02/16/2009 01:23 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Maybe the pope can explain to Nancy what it means to be an "ardent catholic."

Published by: Rich Newhouse
Phoenix,Az. USA 02/16/2009 01:21 PM EST

Rate: Very Good

Anything less than a declaration of excommunication will be extremely disappointing and detrimental to all true Catholics throughout the world. Her stance can not be tolerated or acknowledged by the Pontiff.

Published by: Doug Raggio
Wenonah, NJ, USA 02/16/2009 01:20 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

This is an absolute crime for this woman to get an audience with the Pope!!

Published by: Mike Hartin
Milwaukee,WI U.S.A. 02/16/2009 01:05 PM EST

Please Holy Father tell this woman she can only serve 1 master. Either Pelosi serves Our Heavenly Father or she continues serving the glamor, fame and power of relative secularism. If she thinks she's "an ardent Catholic" I am St. Michael The Archangel!
Keep The Faith+++
Michael

Published by: Jeff Johnson
Collegeville, MN 02/16/2009 12:45 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

Please Holy Father: let her have it sir. She has done much harm to the unborn, and to our once great country.

Published by: Bonnie Quirke
Libertyville, IL. USA 02/16/2009 12:35 PM EST

Rate: Excellent

I believe that Benedict XVI is after Nancy Pelosi's soul, as all good shepherds should be. It is only through prayer and meeting with the sinner, that God is able to move in the hearts of people. Let's pray for Pope Benedict that the Holy Spirit will move through him, to enlighten her to the errors of her ways.

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