KINSTON, ON, June 14, 2004 (LifeSiteNews.com) – The Archbishop of Kingston, has spoken out on Catholics in political life saying that “if they claim any right to be called Catholic: they must unequivocally and publicly state their opposition to abortion.”
Writing in the current June/July 2004 edition of the diocesan paper, The Journey, Archbishop Anthony Meagher says: “It is never appropriate for Catholic leaders to claim that acceptance of such denial of human dignity – for example abortion on demand – is a sign of Canada’s tolerance and goodness. It is not; it is simply cowardice.” Speaking of Canadian Catholic political leaders the Archbishop says, “I am positive they can and must do, if they claim any right to be called Catholic: they must unequivocally and publicly state their opposition to abortion, and be willing to do what can be done to protect the dignity of all human life.” The Archbishop added, that in order to call themselves Catholic they must act on marriage and euthanasia. “They must also ask themselves honestly if it is reasonable to equate the value to society of a same-sex union with the union of a man and a woman who will give life to and nourish a family. Similarly, in order to be faithful to Christ, they must never fail to protect those nearing the end of their lives.” While his remarks apply most obviously to Prime Minister Paul Martin, Archbishop Meagher broadened the application of his letter saying, “To which leaders am I referring? Actually, I am being no more specific than saying that, “if the shoe fits, wear it.”“