"Flood victims, take action!"

http://m.buckscountycouriertimes.com/opinion/letters/flood-victims-take-action/article_aba144a6-a08d-5fbd-82a3-ae90eaca0451.html?mode=jqm

Please share this UPDATED information with your parishioners, families, friends, and all people of good will....

Health Care Conscience Rights Act - Support HR 940 / S 1204

As per a 9/26/13 letter from Cardinal O'Malley and Archbishop Lori,

"We are writing once again, as Chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities and Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty....We have already urged you to enact the Health Care Conscience Rights Act (H.R. 940/S. 1204). As Congress considers a Continuing Resolution and debt ceiling bill in the days to come, we reaffirm the vital importance of incorporating the policy of this bill into such 'must-pass' legislation"

The Catholic League  has a petition to "urge the Obama administration to withdraw the HHS mandate" (http://www.catholicleague.org/petition-to-withdraw-the-hhs-mandate/). 

The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference has a special site (https://www.votervoice.net/link/target/nchla/J6FPEN7bN.aspx), to contact Representative Mike Fitzpatrick, Senator Bob Casey, and Senator Pat Toomey, as well as the president and the vice president, in support of HR 940 / S 1204 (While Fitzpatrick is a co-sponsor of HR 940, neither Casey nor Toomey is a co-sponsor of S 1204.).  The National Committee for a Human Life Amendment has a special site (https://www.votervoice.net/NCHLA/Campaigns/30688/Respond), to send a similar message to Fitzpatrick, Casey, and Toomey, as well as to Speaker of the House John Boehner. You may wish to consider adding this to your message:

"In the interest of basic human dignity - particularly the welfare of children - we also need your sponsorship/ support of 

• HR 732 / S 32 / S 369, 
• HR 1091 / S 583
• HR 3133, 
• HJ Res 51, 
• HR 7 / S946, 
• HR 1797 / S 886, 
• HR 301 / S 653, and 
• HR 23."

---

(Background)

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732 / S 32 / S 369

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state."  There are 110 co-sponsors of HR 732 (including Representative Chris Smith), but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.  Neither Bob Casey nor Pat Toomey are among the 6 co-sponsors of S.32.  However, Pat Toomey is one of the 28 co-sponsors of S.369.



Life at Conception Act - Support HR 1091 / S 583

As per CatholicVote.org, "'The Life at Conception Act'... aims to employ the protections afforded by the 14th amendment in defense of the unborn." Mike Fitzpatrick is not among the 95 co-sponsors of H.R.1091.  Neither Bob Casey nor Pat Toomey are among the 15 co-sponsors of S.583. 



Marriage - Support HR 3133 and HJ Res 51

Virtually lost in discussions about changing marriage/family laws is the social justice truth that children need both a mom and a dad - the authentic rights of children are being ignored.  Opposing traditional marriage, Bob Casey is very publicly supporting the so-called "Respect for Marriage Act (the legislation that repeals the Defense of Marriage Act [DOMA])."   Ever so quietly claiming support for traditional marriage, Fitzpatrick and Toomey bring J.R. Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring to mind:

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”  
To claim support for traditional marriage but to maintain that marriage should simply be treated as a states' issue flies in the face of reality.  The USCCB supports H.R. 3133, the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act.  Mike Fitzpatrick has NOT joined 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 3133, nor has he joined the 55 co-sponsors of H.J. RES. 51 (including Representative Chris Smith).



No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7 / S 946

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith.  There are now 134 co-sponsors of HR 7, but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.  Neither Casey nor Toomey are among the 23 co-sponsors of senate version S 946.  While Casey is the sponsor of S 142 (without any co-sponsors), it strikes this blogger as inferior to S 946.



Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 886

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Mike Fitzpatrick has yet to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797. Pat Toomey is among the 33 co-sponsors of S 886, but Bob Casey is not.



Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301 / S 653

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Neither Casey nor Toomey are among the 14 co-sponsors of S.653.  On 9/18/13,   Mike Fitzpatrick voted favorably on the House version, HR 301.



The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its respective jurisdictions.'"  Fitzpatrick has yet to join 40 of his colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 23.

Democratic candidates for the 8th District in 2014

Neither Shaughnessy Naughton (http://www.shaughnessyforcongress.com/web/#/issues) nor Kevin Strouse (http://www.kevinstrouse.com/issues) is shy about their pro abortion and anti-traditional marriage stands.

http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/09/29/congress-approves-creation-new-envoy-as-religious-attacks-rise-globally/&sa=U&ei=LKZJUuriI47M9ASuuIHIDg&ved=0CA0QqQIwAA&sig2=56yOrQVv_X27AX77hmFroQ&usg=AFQjCNGaNNeIANI--SEG2bKThhLo1MP3rA

http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/conscience-protection/upload/omalley-lori-letter-to-house-2013-09-26.pdf

re: "Blackburn One-Year Delay of Obamacare Approved by House as Part of Continuing Resolution to Prevent Government Shutdown"

While many of us may have been sleeping, there was a 12:11 A.M. vote on HJ Res 59 in the U.S. House of Representatives. As reported on the web site of Representative Marsha Blackburn:

"Congressman [sic] Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) issued the following statement on House passage of a continuing resolution that includes her proposal to delay Obamacare for one year. The resolution approved by the House prevents a government shutdown, delays Obamacare for one year, and repeals the medical device tax. The House also acted on legislation to ensure our men and women in uniform get paid should the Senate fail to act to fund the government.

"'House Republicans have acted in a responsible manner to provide the American people with what they want – a continuing resolution that prevents a government shutdown, controls spending, and protects families and businesses from the harmful effects of Obamacare,' Blackburn said. 'By repealing the unfair medical device tax, this CR also protects the jobs of the 10,000 men and women in Tennessee who work in the medical device industry.'

"'By delaying Obamacare for one year, the House has shown we are listening to the American people who never wanted this law in the first place. Overwhelmingly, our constituents have told us that they want us to delay the onset of Obamacare. It’s too expensive to afford, families can’t keep the insurance plan they like, and it’s killing jobs. It’s become painfully clear that Obmacare is not ready for primetime and in fairness to hardworking Americans the entire law must be delayed. Now it’s time for the Senate to act.

"'In addition to delaying Obamacare for one year, my amendment protects people from the radical HHS mandate which violates millions of Americans' deeply-held religious beliefs and it prevents taxpayer subsidies from going to insurance plans that include elective abortion coverage.'"

While not perfect, Heritage Action for America reminds us that "a delay is a step towards preventing the law’s entitlements from taking root":

"Over the past few months, conservatives around the country have focused on the need to defund Obamacare during the upcoming CR, primarily to prevent the law’s massive new entitlements from taking effect. The Blackburn Amendment presented by House Republicans is a delay of Obamacare’s provisions but does not fully defund implementation of Obamacare. Although it falls short of full defunding, Heritage Action will not key vote against the Blackburn Amendment because a delay is a step towards preventing the law’s entitlements from taking root.

"The Paulsen Amendment, which would permanently repeal the Medical Device Tax, does nothing to prevent the law’s entitlements from taking root and continues funding Obamacare in its entirety.  Like the rest of Obamacare, the tax is bad policy; however, repealing the tax will do little to exempt Americans from the impact of Obamacare.  Heritage Action opposes the Paulsen Amendment, which fails to address the core problems of Obamacare.  

"While passage of H.J.Res.59 would prevent Obamacare’s mandatory programs from coming online this Tuesday, it has failed to fully defund the law.  There is, however, a likely threat that Sen. Harry Reid will block the Blackburn Amendment and return the CR with nothing but the Medical Device Tax repeal. Heritage Action would strongly oppose such legislation and reserves the right to key vote against the Paulsen Amendment."

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick was among the 231 "Yes" votes - a group which included the good company of Representative Chris Smith.

Health Care Conscience Rights Act and more....

Please share this information with your parishioners, families, friends, and all people of good will....

Health Care Conscience Rights Act - Support HR 940 / S 1204

The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference has a special web site (https://www.votervoice.net/link/target/nchla/J6FPEN7bN.aspx), to send this message to Representative Mike Fitzpatrick, Senator Bob Casey, and Senator Pat Toomey, as well as to the president and to the vice president:

"Please include the Health Care Conscience Rights Act (H.R. 940, S. 1204) in upcoming 'must-pass' legislation.  Please represent me by supporting this measure, which ensures that the rights of conscience of all participants in our nation's health care system will be respected.

"Government must not force Americans to violate their religious and moral beliefs on respect for life when they provide health care or purchase health coverage.

"Thank you for representing me by taking a stand in support of religious liberty."

While Fitzpatrick is a co-sponsor of HR 940, neither Casey nor Toomey is a co-sponsor of S 1204. 

---

The National Committee for a Human Life Amendment has a special web site (https://www.votervoice.net/NCHLA/Campaigns/30688/Respond), to send a similar message to Fitzpatrick, Casey, and Toomey, as well as to Speaker of the House John Boehner:

"Please work for approval of the Health Care Conscience Rights Act (H.R. 940, S. 1204) as part of upcoming 'must-pass' legislation. Government must not force Americans to violate their religious and moral beliefs on respect for life when they provide health care or purchase health coverage."

Please consider copying/pasting the following into that message:

In the interest of respect for basic human dignity (particularly child welfare), we also need your sponsorship/ support of 

• HR 732 / S 32 / S 369, 
• HR 1091 / S 583
• HR 3133, 
• HJ Res 51, 
• HR 7 / S946, 
• HR 1797 / S 886, 
• HR 301 / S 653, and 
• HR 23.

---

Please also consider signing a petition urging Fitzpatrick, Casey, and Toomey to "Oppose Using Taxpayer Dollars to Fund Abortion" (http://nationalprolifealliance.com/tpfws_petition.aspx?roi=echo3-17043578696-14908365-0861d7f7893498caf517520e49d7cf6d&pid=ws7&npla=H0BGWT13I):

"Whereas:One out of every four babies conceived is a victim of abortion, a tragedy that has claimed more than 56 million innocent lives since the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion-on-demand; and

"Whereas: Every abortion is a gruesome act that ends an innocent human life and cannot be tolerated in a civilized society; and

"Whereas: Having failed to obtain popular support for their abortion-on-demand agenda, the pro-abortion lobby plans to pack the Court with pro-abortion judges and hide abortion funding into virtually every piece of 'must pass' legislation, including continuing resolutions, budget and authorization bills, so-called 'economic stimulus' bills and even defense authorization bills;

"Therefore: I urge you to work with pro-life members of your party, as well as Congressmen across the aisle, to vigorously oppose all attempts to use the budget to force taxpayers to fund abortion and abortionists."

---

---

(Background)

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732 / S32 / S369

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state."  There are 110 co-sponsors of HR 732 (including Representative Chris Smith), but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.  Neither Bob Casey nor Pat Toomey are among the 6 co-sponsors of S.32.  However, Pat Toomey is one of the 28 co-sponsors of S.369.



Life at Conception Act - Support HR 1091 / S 583

As per CatholicVote.org, "'The Life at Conception Act'... aims to employ the protections afforded by the 14th amendment in defense of the unborn." Mike Fitzpatrick is not among the 95 co-sponsors of H.R.1091.  Neither Bob Casey nor Pat Toomey are among the 15 co-sponsors of S.583. 



Marriage - Support HR 3133 and H.J. Res 51

Virtually lost in discussions about changing marriage/family laws is the social justice truth that children need both a mom and a dad - the authentic rights of children are being ignored.  Opposing traditional marriage, Bob Casey is very publicly supporting the so-called "Respect for Marriage Act (the legislation that repeals the Defense of Marriage Act [DOMA])."   Ever so quietly claiming support for traditional marriage, Fitzpatrick and Toomey bring J.R. Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring to mind:

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”  
To claim support for traditional marriage but to maintain that marriage should simply be treated as a states' issue flies in the face of reality.  The USCCB supports H.R. 3133, the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act.  Mike Fitzpatrick has NOT joined 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 3133, nor has he joined the 55 co-sponsors of H.J. RES. 51 (including Representative Chris Smith).



No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7 / S 946

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith.  There are now 134 co-sponsors of HR 7, but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.  Neither Casey nor Toomey are among the 23 co-sponsors of senate version S 946.  While Casey is the sponsor of S 142 (without any co-sponsors), it strikes this blogger as inferior to S 946.



Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 886

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Mike Fitzpatrick has yet to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797. Pat Toomey is among the 33 co-sponsors of S 886, but Bob Casey is not.



Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301 / S 653

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Neither Casey nor Toomey are among the 14 co-sponsors of S.653.   Mike Fitzpatrick has not joined 72 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.



The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its respective jurisdictions.'"  Fitzpatrick has yet to join 40 of his colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 23.

re: "Are We Obsessed?" (First Things, 9/25/13)

As per Professor Janet E. Smith of Sacred Heart Major Seminary,

"A few passages from Pope Francis’ famous interview published in America have unsettled some people for many reasons....I have long thought that helping people understand why abortion, contraception, and homosexual acts are not in accord with God’s plans for human happiness is a very effective way of drawing people closer to the Lord and to the Church....

"Undoubtedly some pro-lifers and some opponents of contraception and some who crusade against the widespread acceptance of homosexuality are angry people ready to condemn others as unredeemable sinners, but I suspect they are few and far between in the US at least....

"I think most people think they are not sinners and not in need of redemption. They do not think having abortions, using contraception, using pornography, fornicating, masturbating, or engaging in homosexual acts are immoral actions. They think what they are doing is fine and they are fine just as they are....

"Pope Francis finds the homily a proper place to teach moral truths but thinks priests have gotten the order wrong. Where is he hearing these homilies that hammer on moral truths at the expense of preaching the gospel? For some time now I have been trying to help seminarians and priests preach on the difficult moral truths. One reason it is we struggle is that virtually none of us have heard it done! We have heard homilies on abortion—perhaps at most once a year—while homilies on contraception and homosexual acts are so rare as to cause astonishment and generally earn the pastor an influx of hate mail....

"As Dave Sloan—a friend who is one of the best workers in the vineyard—stated in a post on Facebook: 'People do not need to be convinced that they are lost, and they do not need to be convinced that they are wounded. All that is needed is for them to believe that they are known at a deep level and they are loved at a deep level. When they are convinced of these things they are ready enough to reveal their wounds and their sense of being lost. This is messy, and painfully difficult, and it is no surprise that those in the church who have grown comfortable hiding behind a didactic wall are howling that Pope Francis is tearing down that wall.' While I have my quibbles with what the Holy Father said, I think Dave captures the most important element of what he said. Those of us who love didactic certainty need to examine ourselves to strive constantly to ensure that our actions are motivated by love."

"Pledge for the Preservation of Life and Liberty"

Fr. Frank Pavone of Priests for Life and Judie Brown of the American Life League (and formerly of the Pontifical Academy for Life) are among those signing the "Pledge for the Preservation of Life and Liberty,"

"Whereas, the founding documents of the United States and the principles espoused by our Founding Fathers affirm rights granted to the American citizenry based on freedom and human dignity; and

"Whereas, the Declaration of Independence affirms that all humans receive the inalienable Right to Life from a Creator; and

"Whereas, the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees each citizen’s Freedom of Religion and Freedom of Speech; and

"Whereas, the Constitution upholds the rights of citizens to live according to their conscience and moral dictates (1); and

"Whereas, many religions (and denominations and sects thereof) believe and teach, as a bedrock principle of their faith, that life begins at conception, and that complicity with abortion is unquestionably sinful and/or immoral (2); and

"Whereas, science, biology, and medicine confirm that, in sexual reproduction, each human being’s life begins at the beginning of fertilization, and

"Whereas, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the United States Government compels every citizen, regardless of religious belief and/or moral belief, to purchase an ACA qualified health insurance policy; and

"Whereas, the ACA, in most cases, will force those same citizens to pay for surgical and medical abortions, whether directly or indirectly, including drugs and devices that can end preborn human life; and

"Whereas, abortion, including drugs and/or devices that can end a preborn human life, is not healthcare; pregnancy is not a disease to be treated with abortion; and, abortion is an elective, life-ending procedure that kills an innocent human life;

"THEREFORE, we declare that we will not comply with any regulation of the ACA wherein we are forced to pay for abortion or forced to willfully participate in the killing of innocent children.

"In practicality, this means we will not choose an insurance policy that contains abortion funding, whether directly or indirectly, even to the point of choosing no insurance, at all.  Furthermore, we support any citizen who chooses to act in peaceful protest, including non-violent civil disobedience, as the government has no authority to force us, as free citizens, to violate our conscience or forfeit our religious freedoms."

Mike Fitzpatrick: It's time to get busy with pro life and pro family legislation!

Mike Fitzpatrick is currently the primary sponsor of 25 pieces of legislation, including

• H.R.2856  (Captive Primate Safety Act), "To amend the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to prohibit
  importation, exportation, transportation, sale, receipt, acquisition, and purchase in interstate or foreign commerce, or in a manner substantially affecting interstate or foreign commerce, of any live animal of any prohibited wildlife species. 
• H.R.2987  (PTC Certainty and Phaseout Act of 2013), "To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to phasedown the credit for electricity produced from wind." 
• H.J.RES.8 : "Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve to 4 in the House of Representatives and 2 in the Senate."

If Fitzpatrick follows the spirit of his own H.J.RES.8, 2014 would mark the campaign for his final term in the House of Representatives.  It's time to get busy with pro life and pro family legislation!  We need Congressman Fitzpatrick to step up to the plate, stand with Congressman Chris Smith - a champion of pre-born children, a champion of growing children, and a champion of victims of human trafficking - and sponsor/support HR 732, HR 3133, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, and HR 301, as well as HR 23.  We need leadership!

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state."  There are now 110 co-sponsors of HR 732 (including Representative Chris Smith), but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.

Marriage - Support HR 3133 and H.J. Res 51

Virtually lost in current discussions about changing marriage/family laws is the simple social justice truth that children need both a mom and a dad.  The rights of children are being ignored.  Fitzpatrick's stand that marriage should simply be treated as a states' issue flies in the face of current reality.  As per a 9/20/13 announcement from the USCCB, "Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, gave their strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (H.R. 3133) introduced yesterday in the U.S. House of Representatives."  Rather than join 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 3133, Mike Fitzpatrick remains on the sidelines.  There are now 55 co-sponsors of H.J. RES. 51 (including Representative Chris Smith), but the name "Fitzpatrick" is NOT among them.

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith.  There are now 134 co-sponsors of HR 7, but Mike Fitzpatrick is NOT among them.

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Mike Fitzpatrick has yet to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797.

Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Mike Fitzpatrick has yet to join 72 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.

The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its respective jurisdictions.'"  Fitzpatrick has yet to join 40 of his colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 23.


Email Rep. Fitzpatrick (mikefitzpatrickpa08@live.com)

"double dealing that is not unlike perjury"

http://www.catholicvote.org/detroit-archbishop-tries-to-save-souls-mainstream-media-not-happy/&sa=U&ei=7wZEUvjyM5Ly9gT534DgAg&ved=0CBQQFjAD&sig2=eG8EgzDcI0BQdqGFgWI2Ug&usg=AFQjCNFqQhTu2yeuQWKJ-4bcaVWYjI9oAA

Catholics with a well-formed conscience need not apply?

Is Cardinal Burke the only American bishop who truly "gets it"?

"If the present government, which can be described in no other way than totalitarian, is not held back from the course it is on, these persecutions will follow. It will not be possible for Catholics to exercise most of the normal human services whether in health care, education, or social welfare because in conscience they will no longer be able to do what the government demands: to cooperate in grave moral evil. We are heading in that direction and even see it now."
http://www.thewandererpress.com/ee/wandererpress/index.php?pSetup=wandererpress&curDate=20130905

Church honors for obstinate promoters of evil: "There is no way to reconcile it; it is simply wrong."

http://www.thewandererpress.com/ee/wandererpress/index.php?pSetup=wandererpress&curDate=20130905

an "anti-life and anti-family culture which....We as Catholics have not properly combatted"

http://www.thewandererpress.com/ee/wandererpress/index.php?pSetup=wandererpress&curDate=20130905

re: "Archdiocese will create independent charitable foundation" (Inquirer, 9/24/13)

"In a significant break from custom, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will announce Tuesday the creation of an independent charitable foundation designed to reengage disaffected Catholics and boost giving.... Chairman of the board is Richard T. Clark, a retired chairman and chief executive of Merck" (Harold Brubaker, Philadelphia Inquirer, 9/24/13).  

• In addition to Clark, another of the 14 Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia trustees is from Merck.  Bernard J. Kelley is identified as a former president of the Merck Manufacturing Division.  Is it of interest to anyone in the Archdiocese that Merck, according to International Planned Parenthood, is a manufacturer of hormonal contraceptives?


• Trustee Judith M. Persichilli is identified as the interim president and CEO, CHE Trinity Health.  As president/ceo of Catholic Health East, Persichilli received total compensation of $2,458,985 in 2010.  Despite her own wopping salary, conditions at CHE facilities in the Archdiocese included 
• a paucity of NFP-only physicians, 
• "privileges" for associates of practices involved with "fetal reduction", 
• provision of information on "advance directives" failing to specify that Catholic teaching must be honored - particularly with regard to provision of nutrition and hydration.
In spite of the above, Judith Persichilli received papal honors in the Diocese of Trenton in 2011.

• Starting in 1985, trustee Nicholas S. Rashford, S.J, served about 17 years as president of St. Joseph's University.  SJU "Unity Week" apparently started during Father Rashford's tenure.

• Trustee David N. Watson is identified as an executive VP and COO for Comcast.  Has anyone in the Archdiocese noticed the filth which Comcast pumps into homes?  (If the ability to bring in money is the only criteria, the Archdiocese should have looked to Walter White (Yes, I am being extremely sarcastic.).)

Bucks County representatives and senators in Harrisburg absolutely need to hear us on OPPOSING HB300/SB300, SB872, and SB719/HB1647 and SUPPORTING HB 1349 (Email Rep. Clymer, Rep. Davis, Rep. DiGirolomo, Rep. Farry, Rep. Galloway, Rep. O'Neill, Rep. Petri, Rep. Quinn, Rep. Santarsiero, Rep. Watson, Sen. Greenleaf, Sen. McIlhinney, Sen. Mensch, and Sen. Tomlinson)....

Our congressman absolutely needs to hear us on SUPPORTING HR 732, HR 3133, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, HR 301, and HR 23 (Email Rep. Fitzpatrick)....

Doesn't the Archdiocese need to hear us on the need for truth in advertising from our "Catholic" hospitals?  If a hospital does not act Catholic, should it be allowed to be called "Catholic" (Email Archbishop Chaput)?

We usually hear that 55 million children have been killed from abortion in the U.S., since Roe v. Wade.  When you add abortions from chemical and mechanical "contraceptives," Pharmacists for Life puts the number at 308 million!  Don't parishes that have providers of abortifacients/contraceptives in their bulletins need to be reminded about the inappropriateness (Email Queen of the Universe, St. Charles, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Thomas Aquinas)? 

"As long as they can use the issue to get votes, abortion will continue as an unresolved political issue"

There is no way that we should want to go back to the days of Planned Parenthood champion Patrick Murphy representing Pa's 8th district in Congress.  Yet while the Bucks County Republican party may seem comparatively "pro life," the Bucks County Republicans sent Planned Parenthood champions Peter Kostmayer and Jim Greenwood to Congress - to say nothing of Planned Parenthood champion Chuck McIlhinney to Harrisburg!  Back in February, Thomas Pallanta Jr of Middletown offered a stinging criticism:

"I have noticed that on [sic] election years, the 'pro-life' Republicans put the abortion issue on the front burner and turn up the heat as election nears. After the election, the abortion issue goes on the back burner to cool until the next election. This process has been going on for decades, and no one seems to notice....Abortion is a hot button issue that the Republicans use to get conservatives to vote for them. As long as they can use the issue to get votes, abortion will continue as an unresolved political issue" (Bucks County Courier Times, 2/1/13). Ow!

If we sent Mike Fitzpatrick to Congress believing him to be "pro life" and "pro family," we need much more than an occasional sponsorship and an occasional vote.  We need Mike to step up to the plate, stand with Congressman Chris Smith - a champion of pre-born children, a champion of growing children, and a champion of victims of human trafficking - and sponsor/support HR 732, HR 3133, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, and HR 301, as well as HR 23.  Mike is supposed to work for the constituents of the 8th Congressional District - We need leadership! 

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state."  Fitzpatrick needs to join 109 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 732.

Marriage - Support HR 3133 and H.J. Res 51

Virtually lost in current discussions about changing marriage/family laws is the simple social justice truth that children need both a mom and a dad.  The rights of children are being ignored.  Fitzpatrick's stand that marriage should simply be treated as a states' issue flies in the face of current reality.  As per a 9/20/13 announcement from the USCCB, "Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, gave their strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (H.R. 3133) introduced...in the U.S. House of Representatives."  Fitzpatrick needs to join 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 3133.  Fitzpatrick needs to join 54 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of H.J. RES. 51

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith.  Fitzpatrick needs to stand with Chris Smith and 132 other colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 7.

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Fitzpatrick needs to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797.

Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Fitzpatrick needs to join 72 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.

The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its respective jurisdictions.'"  Fitzpatrick needs to join 40 of his colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 23.


Email Rep. Fitzpatrick (mikefitzpatrickpa08@live.com)

Fitzpatrick needs to step up to the plate on HR 732, HR 3133, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, HR 301, and HR 23

We certainly would not want to go back to the eras of Kostmayer, Greenwood, and Murphy, but we also need Congressman Fitzpatrick to step up to the plate, stand with Congressman Chris Smith - a champion of pre-born children, a champion of growing children, and a champion of victims of human trafficking - and sponsor/support HR 732, HR 3133, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, and HR 301, as well as HR 23.  We need leadership!

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state."  Fitzpatrick needs to join 109 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 732. 

Marriage - Support HR 3133 and H.J. Res 51

Virtually lost in current discussions about changing marriage/family laws is the simple social justice truth that children need both a mom and a dad.  The rights of children are being ignored.  Fitzpatrick's stand that marriage should simply be treated as a states' issue flies in the face of current reality.  As per a 9/20/13 announcement from the USCCB, "Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, gave their strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (H.R. 3133) introduced yesterday in the U.S. House of Representatives."  Fitzpatrick needs to join 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 3133.  Fitzpatrick needs to join 53 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of H.J. RES. 51

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith.  Fitzpatrick needs to stand with Chris Smith and 132 other colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 7.

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Fitzpatrick needs to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797.

Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Fitzpatrick needs to join 72 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.

The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its respective jurisdictions.'"  Fitzpatrick needs to join 40 of his colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 23.


Email Rep. Fitzpatrick (mikefitzpatrickpa08@live.com)

Putting Pope Francis' interview in context....

The actual interview & NOT the dopey AP article: http://www.americamagazine.org/pope-interview

Commentary: http://wdtprs.com/blog/2013/09/first-thoughts-about-the-francis-interview/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wdtprs%2FDhFa+%28Fr.+Z%27s+Blog+-+What+Does+The+Prayer+Really+Say%3F%29

"The US Bishops are standing firm against the HHS mandate, but they could say more"

http://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/otc.cfm?id=1111

Except for Clymer, Silence from Bucks Cty Republicans instead of Defending Traditional Marriage

Defending Marriage in Washington - Support H.J. Res 51

With regard to our legislators in Washington, it seems well known that Democratic Senator Robert Casey is NOT a defender of traditional marriage.  In fact, Casey is an original co-sponsors of the misleadingly named "Respect for Marriage Act" (S 1236 ), calling for repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act.

Perhaps more surprisingly, a recent constituent response from Republican Senator Pat Toomey does NOT signal any intention of helping to raise awareness of the necessity for "traditional marriage":

In the House, Republican Representative Mike Fitzpatrick has NOT stepped up to support/co-sponsor H.J. RES. 51, which supports an amendment to the U.S. Constitution limiting marriage to a man and a woman (By the way, the National Organization for Marriage has a web site to facilitate requests for support: http://www.capwiz.com/nationformarriage/issues/alert/?alertid=62750806&REF=EB130906NANT&link=button1.).

Phyllis Schafly may have best described the situation in D.C.: "Political support for traditional marriage seemed to evaporate in the summer of 2013.... Republicans in the House of Representatives had hired top legal talent to defend DOMA in court. After the Supreme Court decision, they quietly canceled their legal support for defending marriage and have said nothing since.  We hardly hear anyone standing up for the proposition that traditional civil marriage is essential"

Toomey and Fitzpatrick - we need you gentlemen to grow backbones.

Defending Marriage in Harrisburg - Support HB 1349

Republican Representative Paul Clymer was the lone Bucks County voice in the introduction of HB 1349,

"Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for marriage.
The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hereby resolves as follows:
Section 1.   The following amendment to the Constitution of Pennsylvania is proposed in accordance with Article XI: That Article I be amended by adding a section to read:
§ 29.   Marriage.
Marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife and no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized."

Fellow Bucks County Republican Representatives Frank Farry, Gene DiGirolamo, Bernie O’Neill, Scott Petri, Marguerite Quinn, and Kathy Watson have NOT stepped up to the defense of traditional marriage.  We need you to grow backbones!

There does not presently seem to be Senate legislation comparable to HB 1349.  Bucks County Republican Senators Greenleaf, McIlhinney, Mensch, and Tomlinson: please step up to the plate and propose a comparable marriage amendment in the Senate.

Cardinal Dolan, we are NOT "burdened" by Catholic values. The TRUTH will set us free.

As per Cardinal Dolan's 9/17/13 letter to his brother bishops on the HHS Mandate:

• "Catholics – our parents and grandparents, religious sisters, brothers and priests – were among the first at the table to advance and provide health care, and now we are being burdened because of the same Catholic values that compel us into these ministries!.... 
• "the final version of the mandate still suffers from the same three basic problems we have highlighted from the start: its narrow definition of 'religious employer' reduces religious freedom to the freedom of worship by dividing our community between houses of worship and ministries of service; its second-class treatment of those great ministries—the so-called 'accommodation'—leaves them without adequate relief; and its failure to offer any relief at all to for-profit businesses run by so many of our faithful in the pews.... 
• "If there's any perception that our dedication to this fight is flagging, that’s dead wrong. 
• "That perception may come in part from the Catholic Health Association’s hurried acceptance of the accommodation, which was, I’m afraid, untimely and unhelpful."

Your Eminence, we are NOT "burdened" by Catholic values.  The TRUTH will set us free.  We are "burdened" by the so-called Catholic Health Association's identification as "Catholic."

Oppose the Cornelia Pillard nomination

http://www.lifenews.com/2013/09/16/obama-nominee-for-judge-says-abortion-frees-women-from-conscription-into-maternity/

Senator Toomey: Is your response that of someone who is a true supporter of "traditional marriage"?

Is this the response of someone who is a true supporter of "traditional marriage"?  What will you do to raise awareness of the necessity of "traditional marriage"?

excerpts from "Dealing with Darkened Intellects on Marriage"

"When the Supreme Court overturned the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) earlier this year, it ruled that it is unconstitutional for Congress to interpret 'marriage' and 'spouse' as applying only to heterosexual unions. The majority opinion, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy (nominally a Catholic), asserted that the only possible motivation for restricting marriage to heterosexual unions is a 'bare congressional desire to harm a politically unpopular group'....


"it is not at all easy to understand how anyone who knows anything about the human tradition of marriage, or even anything about the importance of marriage to the social order, could possibly dismiss as irrational the previous understanding of marriage, which is rooted in the protection of our natural powers of procreation and family development. It is also difficult to understand how anyone remotely in touch with reality can assert that the only possible motivation for laws based on this traditional understanding is a desire to harm homosexuals....

"it is difficult to understand the logic. It is not at all difficult to understand the cause. The cause is the darkening of the intellect due to sin. It would be hard to find a clearer case" (Dr. Jeff Mirus, Dealing with Darkened Intellects on Marriage, 9/12/13).

Mike Fitzpatrick: Sponsor/Support HR 732, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, HR 301, & HR 23

We need Mike Fitzpatrick to step up to the plate, stand with Chris Smith, and sponsor/support HR 732, HJ Res 51, HR 7, HR 1797, and HR 301, as well as HR 23....

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state." Ask Mike Fitzpatrick to join 105 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 732. 

Marriage - Support H.J. Res 51

Congressman Time Huelskamp has introduced H.J. RES. 51, supporting a an amendment to the U.S. Constitution limiting marriage to a man and a woman.  Ask Mike Fitzpatrick to join 52 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of H.J. RES. 51 (The National Organization for Marriage has a web site to facilitate requests for support: http://www.capwiz.com/nationformarriage/issues/alert/?alertid=62750806&REF=EB130906NANT&link=button1.).

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding
 of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith; Ask Mike Fitzpatrick to stand with Chris Smith and 131 other colleagues as a co-sponsor of HR 7.

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Ask Mike Fitzpatrick to join 184 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 1797.

Religious Freedom Throughout the World - Support HR 301

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin, "As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia." Ask Mike Fitzpatrick to join 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.

The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its
 respective jurisdictions.'"  Representative Fitzpatrick is not one of the 39 co-sponsors of HR 23.


Email Rep. Fitzpatrick (mikefitzpatrickpa08@live.com)

Senate Judiciary Committee Should NOT Approve Cornelia Pillard of Georgetown Law

http://www.lifenews.com/2013/09/13/senate-judiciary-committee-must-stop-pro-abortion-judicial-pick-cornelia-pillard/

Contact info: http://www.judiciary.senate.gov/contact.cfm

Cardinal Dolan criticizes CHAUSA's acceptance of HHS mandate

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1303871.htm

Updates - Please Share!

Please share this information with your parishioners....

Caring for Our Brothers and Sisters Throughout the World - Support S653/HR301

As per Bishop Pates' 5/20/13 letter to Senators Roy Blunt and Carl Levin,

"As Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, I commend your tireless efforts to advance religious freedom as evidenced by your sponsorship of S. 653, a bill to establish a Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia....

"Following egregious violence against religious minorities, such as church bombings in Egypt and Nigeria, bombings of Ahmadiyyah mosques and buses carrying Shi’a pilgrims in Pakistan, the attack on the Syrian Catholic cathedral in Baghdad, the assassination of Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs, the targeting by Hindu extremists of Christian villages in India, or riots in Burma that have killed almost 200 Muslims and left thousands homeless, we have strongly urged the Administration to press other governments to undertake concrete measures to respect and protect the human rights and religious freedom of all their citizens"

Neither Senator Casey nor Senator Toomey has signed on as a co-sponsor of S 653.  Representative Fitzpatrick has not joined 62 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of the House version, HR 301.

Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act - Support HR 732/S369

As per Priests for Life, "The Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act (CIANA) would make it illegal to take a minor across a state line to evade the requirements of a pre-abortion parental involvement law in the girl’s home state." Representative Fitzpatrick has not joined 105 of his colleagues (including Representative Chris Smith) as a co-sponsor of HR 732.  Kudos to Senator Toomey for being a co-sponsor of the Senate version, S369; Senator Casey is not a co-sponsor of S369.

Conscience Protection - Support HR940/S1204

Joint letters were issued on 6/21/13 by Archbishop William Lori of the USCCB and Dr. Russell Moore of the Southern Baptist Convention, to members of the U.S. House of Representatives and to members of the U.S. Senate, supporting H.R. 940 and S. 1204.  Kudos to Representative Fitzpatrick for co-sponsoring HR 940.  Senators Casey and Senator Toomey are not co-sponsors of S1204.  
 

Euthanasia - Oppose HR1173

HR 1173 would constitute a direct assault on what the Church proclaims about the sanctity of each human life and how that applies to health care*:

"The POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form is a standard document that, when signed by a designated healthcare professional, dictates whether to withhold or administer certain forms of medical treatment and/or care. POLST is known by different acronyms in various states (MOST, MOLST, POST, etc.)....The completed POLST form is not simply an expression of a patient’s treatment preferences; it is a set of physician's orders which must be followed....POLST is tilted toward non-treatment and can encourage premature withdrawal of treatment from patients who, but for the denial of treatment, would not die....Of special concern is a new federal bill – the 'Personalize Your Care Act' (H.R. 1173). Introduced by Representative Earl Blumenauer, D-Oregon [with Alyson Schwartz as a co-sponsor], ...it is described as a bill to 'amend the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of voluntary advance care planning consultation under Medicare and Medicaid, and for other purposes'....H.R. 1173 includes funding for promotion of POLST throughout the country" (What is a POLST, and why should you oppose it?, LifeSiteNews.com, 8/30/13).
*Pontifical Council for Pastoral Assistance to Health Care Workers, Charter for Health Care Workers, 1995;
Address of John Paul II to the Participants in the International Congress on "Life-Sustaining Treatments and Vegetative State: Scientific Advances and Ethical Dilemnas", 3/20/04;
Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Responses to Certain Questions of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Concerning Artificial Nutrition and Hydration, 8/1/07;
USCCB, Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (5th ed), 11/17/09

  

"Gender Identity" - Oppose S 815 and SB300/HB300

As readily acknowledged by the Human Rights Campaign, the term "gender identity" refers to how a person views herself or himself, regardless of whether that perception corresponds with anatomy.

• “Faced with theories that consider gender identity as merely the cultural and social product of the interaction between the community and the individual, independent of personal sexual identity without any reference to the true meaning of sexuality, the Church does not tire of repeating her teaching: 'Everyone, man and woman, should acknowledge and accept his sexual identity. Physical, moral and spiritual difference and complementarities are oriented towards the goods of marriage and the flourishing of family life. The harmony of the couple and of society depends in part on the way in which the complementarities, needs and mutual support between the sexes are lived out' (Chapter Five of the Vatican's Compendium of Social Doctrine)
• "In assessing proposed legislation, the Bishops should keep as their uppermost concern the responsibility to defend and promote family life" (Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church on the Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons, 1986).

The USCCB has expressed concern that "ENDA [i.e., S. 815, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013], if enacted, could be used to punish as discrimination what the Catholic Church teaches....The bill’s treatment of 'gender identity' ...would have an adverse effect on privacy and associational rights of others" (letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions from Bishop Stephen E. Blaire, Archbishop William E. Lori, and Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone).  Particularly because he identifies himself as a Catholic, it should be of serious concern that Senator Casey is a co-sponsor of S. 815.

On the state level, HB 300 and SB 300 speak of "freedom from discrimination in...public accommodation," regardless of "'gender identity or expression.'"  As explained by Brandon McGinley of the Pennsylvania Family Institute, "HB/SB 300 is being sold as a 'sexual orientation and gender identity' employment nondiscrimination bill, but in states and cities with similar ordinances the reach of the law always stretches to bathrooms, locker rooms, dorm rooms and any other public facility traditionally segregated by gender" (Philadelphia Inquirer, 8/21/13). If polled, most people would view the restriction of ladies' rooms to anatomical females (and vice versa) as common sense and NOT "unjust discrimination." The following legislators from Bucks County were original co-sponsors of HB300/SB300:

• Representative Tina Davis (Cardinal Dougherty/LaSalle University alumnus)
• Representative John Galloway (Bishop Egan alumnus) - He has now withdrawn sponsorship.
• Senator Chuck McIlhinney 
• Representative Marguerite Quinn (Bishop Conwell/St Joseph's University alumnus)
• Representative Steve Santarsiero (Holy Family alumnus)
• Representative Scott Petri (Villanova alumnus)

Particularly because they identify themselves as Catholics, it should be of serious concern that McIlhinney and Quinn are co-sponsors of HB300/SB300.

Immigration Reform - Support S744

"The U.S. Catholic bishops, along with millions of fellow American Catholics, seek reasonable legislation that will offer undocumented persons a path to citizenship and promote family unity. Specifically, the bishops hope for the following elements in any immigration reform bill:

First, a path to citizenship for undocumented workers that’s fair, accessible and achievable in a reasonable timeframe. Second, reform of the family-based immigration system to reunite husbands, wives and children in a more rapid manner. Third, a program that would allow low-skilled migrant workers to enter the United States legally as needed labor. Fourth, due process protections for immigrants. And fifth, policies which at least begin to address the root causes of migration, such as economic inequities and persecution....

"The Senate passed a major immigration reform bill (S. 744) on June 27, by a vote of 68-32....

"Immigration is an issue where committed Catholics can legitimately disagree. But real reform of our immigration laws is long overdue" (Archbishop Chaput, 8/15/13).

Senator Casey voted "yea" on S744, while Senator Toomey voted "nay."

Marriage - Support HB 1349 and OPPOSE SB 719; Support H.J. Res 51

As reported by the Pennsylvania Family Institute, Commonwealth Court Judge Dan Pellegrini ruled on September 12th that the issuance of marriage licenses to same-sex couples in Pennsylvania must stop.  We have a long road ahead in protecting marriage on state and federal levels.  On the state level, we need to urge support for HB 1349 and oppose SB 719.  On the federal level, we need to urge support for H.J. RES. 51.

Paul Clymer was the sole Bucks County representative to join Representative Daryl Metcalfe in introducing HB 1349,

"Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for marriage.
The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hereby resolves as follows:
Section 1.   The following amendment to the Constitution of Pennsylvania is proposed in accordance with Article XI: That Article I be amended by adding a section to read:
§ 29.   Marriage.
Marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife and no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized."

As per as 7/1/13 news item on the web site of Bucks County Representative Steve Santarsiero:

"State Rep. Steve Santarsiero, D-Bucks, today announced he will co-sponsor the Marriage Equality Bill, introduced by Reps. Brian Sims, D-Phila., and Steve McCarter, D-Montgomery/Phila.

"The bill, which mirrors S.B. 719, introduced by Sen. Daylin Leach, D-Montgomery/Delaware, would eliminate the prohibition of same-sex marriages in Pennsylvania."

On a federal level, Congressman Time Huelskamp has introduced H.J. RES. 51, supporting a an amendment to the U.S. Constitution limiting marriage to a man and a woman.  Representative Fitzpatrick is not a co-sponsor.  The National Organization for Marriage has a web site to facilitate requests for support from Fitzpatrick and others: http://www.capwiz.com/nationformarriage/issues/alert/?alertid=62750806&REF=EB130906NANT&link=button1

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Support HR 7/S 946

As per Priests for Life, "The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act would prohibit the federal funding
 of abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother."  HR 7 was introduced by Representative Chris Smith; Representative Fitzpatrick is not one of the 131 co-sponsors.  Neither Senator Casey nor Senator Toomey are co-sponsors of S 946 (Note: Casey introduced his own S 142, which appears to this blogger to be a weakened version and has no co-sponsors.). 

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797 and S 886

"Priests for Life believes this is the most significant legislative effort to date in bringing protection to unborn children. We have therefore already alerted every parish in America to inform and mobilize its congregation in support of this bill. We are also calling upon pro-life organizations large and small to give it their full support" (Fr. Frank Pavone, 5/21/13). Representative Mike Fitzpatrick is not one of the 184 co-sponsors (including Representative Chris Smith).  Kudos to Senator Toomey for co-sponsoring S 886.  Senator Casey is not a co-sponsor of S 886.

The Right to Informed Consent - Oppose SB 872

Dr. Rick Fitzgibbons of Montgomery County is a psychiatrist, member of the Pediatric Psychosocial Development Committee of the American College of Pediatricians, and director of the Institute for Marital Healing.  Dr. Fitzgibbons maintains that "Youth have the right to be provided informed consent about the serious medical and psychiatric illnesses, and risks, of the homosexual lifestyle.  Pediatricians, mental health professionals, physicians, nurses and school counselors have a clear legal responsibility to do so, and parents, family members, educators, and clergy a grave moral responsibility" (Same-Sex Attractions in Youth and Their Right to Informed Consent, 5/21/12).

By contrast, SB 872, "Prohibiting mental health professionals from engaging in sexual orientation change efforts with an individual under 18 years of age," would disregard the welfare of minors, assault parental rights, and assault the right to informed consent.

The Sanctity of Human Life Act - Support HR 23

As per Priests for Life, "The Sanctity of Human Life Act would declare that the right to life guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution vests in each human being at 'fertilization, cloning, or its functional equivalent, irrespective of sex, health, function or disability, defect, stage of biological development, or condition of dependency.'  Further, the measure states that 'the Congress affirms that the Congress, each State, the District of Columbia, and all United States territories have the authority to protect the lives of all human beings residing in its
 respective jurisdictions.'"  Representative Fitzpatrick is not one of the 39 co-sponsors of HR 23.

SNAP and the Budget

As per the USCCB, "urge your Representative and Senators to support SNAP (food stamps)...and support a budget that helps people struggling in this economy."  The USCCB has a web page, to facilitate contact with elected officials: http://www.capwiz.com/catholicbishops/issues/alert/?alertid=62920096&type=CO.

Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act - Support HR 61 and HR 217 and S135

As per Priests for Life, "HR 61 would require any entity receiving taxpayer funds through the federal Title X family planning program to certify in writing that it will not perform abortions and will not provide funds to any entity that performs abortions. The bill would allow funding to go to organizations that perform abortions only in cases to save the mother’s life or where a pregnancy results from rape or incest.  The measure would deny Planned Parenthood and any other abortion providers a major source of their federal funding."  Kudos to Representative Fitzpatrick for being one of the 91 co-sponsors of HR 61.

As per Priests for Life, "HR 217, like HR 61, would require any entity receiving federal funds from the Title X family planning program to certify that it will not perform abortions and will not provide any money to another entity that performs abortions.  The bill would effectively bar Planned Parenthood and other abortion
 providers from participating in the Title X program."  Representative Fitzpatrick is not one of the 176 co-sponsors of HR 217.

Neither Senator Casey nor Senator Toomey is a co-sponsor of the Senate version, S135.