Just where is it to be found in the Catechism that bishops may NOT give specific instructions as to whom Catholics may vote?

Though the authors are absolutely not friendly to Catholicism and pro-life philosophies, "Colonialism, Catholicism, and Contraception" (Annette B. Ramirez de Arellano and Conrad Seipp, University of North Carolina Press, 1983) presents a deeply disturbing history of how the people of Puerto Rico were exploited for "contraceptive" testing. It also provides some fascinating background, related to instructions from bishops on voting:

• In 1960, the authors indicate that reigning political powers were strongly supportive of population control and "contraceptives": 

  "a group of Catholic laymen organized the Christian Action Party (CAP)....The appeal of the new party was based almost exclusively on its support of religious instruction for public school pupils and its objection to existing legislation on birth control and sterilization....
  
  "Bishops James P. Davis of San Juan and James E. McManus of Ponce issued a pastoral letter describing the CAP as `the answer to the intolerable attitude' of the island's established political parties....
  
  "political controversy was heightened when Francis Cardinal Spellman of New York visited Puerto Rico....Spellman was asked to comment on the bishops' involvement with the CAP. Spellman's diplomatic reply was, `I keep out of politics. It is outside my competence and will,' thereby implying that Davis and McManus should do the same.
  
  "Scarcely a week later, ...[Bishops Davis and McManus] issued a pastoral letter prohibiting Catholics of Puerto Rico from voting for [CAP's opposition]....John F. Kennedy, who aspired to be his country's first Catholic president, quickly reacted to the pastoral letter, calling the bishops' action `wholly improper'.... the Kennedys attempted to quarantine the Puerto Rican dispute. Subsequent declarations of several distinguished Catholic prelates accomplished [such]" (pp. 150 - 153). 

• By 1965, Bishops Davis and McManus were gone, as was their style. Henceforth, "the church was vigilant but not vocal" (p. 160).

Scarcely more than a half century ago on U.S. soil, Bishops Davis and McManus were abundantly clear that Catholics could NOT vote for specific candidates who promoted contraceptives and sterilization.  They told their people exactly for whom they could NOT vote!

 Though there may be IRS difficulties with the style of Bishops Davis and McManus, where does the Catechism say that this cannot be done?  Though it's often presented as a given that it cannot be done, I find nothing in the Catechism to even suggest such.

If it's there in the Catechsim (or Canon Law), please let me know.

Fitzpatrick does the right thing & votes for HR 7

See: http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2014/roll030.xml.

Bill Clinton's own "War on Women" was ignored....

The Pa Catholic Conference and Human Trafficking

As per the U.S. State Department's Trafficking in Persons Report 2013, only "a mere fraction of the more than 26 million men, women, and children who are estimated to suffer in modern slavery have been recognized by governments as such and are eligible to receive the protection and support they are owed."

Some try to insinuate that Catholics and others who champion the rights of not-yet-born children do not recognize other assaults on basic human dignity.  How wrong they are!

"The solemn proclamation of human rights is contradicted by a painful reality of violations,

• wars and violence of every kind…,
• genocides and mass deportations,…
• ever new forms of slavery such as
trafficking in human beings,
child soldiers,
the exploitation of workers,
illegal drug trafficking,
prostitution" (The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, Chapter 3: The Human Person and Human Rights)

Catholics are at the very forefront of raising awareness about human trafficking.  Our neighbor - Mercer County (NJ) Congressman and pro life champion Chris Smith - has been the undisputed congressional champion in sounding the alarm to the modern slavery of human trafficking:  "There’s nobody more committed or dedicated....I appreciate Chris’s advocacy on this issue....And it’s no understatement to say that he was banging the drum on this long before many in Congress even knew the term 'trafficking in persons' or understood what it really meant" (Secretary of State John Kerry, Remarks at the Annual Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP) Release, 6/19/13). 


One aspect of the fight against human trafficking is the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act.  As the USCCB explained in 2005 about the need for this legislation, 

"a mother in Pennsylvania, where parental involvement is required, testified before Congress that her daughter was taken without her knowledge to New Jersey for a secret abortion by the parents of her daughter's boyfriend.... 'We urge Congress to pass this law to help protect vulnerable girls from this kind of exploitation.'"

Kudos to Mike Fitzpatrick for being a co-sponsor of HR 732.  Neither Bob Casey nor Pat Toomey are co-sponsors in the U.S. Senate of  S.32.  However, kudos do go to Toomey for being a co-sponsor of S.369.

In Harrisburg, Senator Stewart Greenleaf "introduced SB75, a law to fight human trafficking in Pennsylvania that was unanimously approved Dec. 10 in the Senate” (Linda Finarelli, Human trafficking bill pending in PA House, 1/24/14).  As per the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, "Legislation was already passed unanimously by the Pennsylvania Senate in December and hopefully it will be considered by the House of Representatives in the near future....we must demand legislative action that supports the dignity of the person and prevents victims from even getting involved in human trafficking. Please send a message in support of legislation that ends human trafficking by clicking here."

No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act (HR 7) to be voted on, this week!

With the shortness of time, please, please share this information  from the pulpit, this weekend....

As reported by the Pa Catholic Conference, “In congressional testimony, an official of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has voiced the bishops’ support for H.R. 7....The bipartisan bill was introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to prevent every federal program from funding abortion and abortion coverage on a permanent basis.”  S 946 is a senate version of HR 7.


Heretofore, Mike Fitzpatrick has ignored requests to become one of the 164 (as of 1/25/14) co-sponsors of HR 7.  Bob Casey and Pat Toomey have also ignored requests to join the 24 co-sponsors (as of 1/25/14) co-sponsors of  S 946 (With no co-sponsors, Bob Casey's own S.142 strikes this blogger as an inferior alternative.).

This coming week, Mike Fitzpatrick will get an opportunity to redeem himself on HR 7.  House Majority Leader Eric Cantor has announced that HR 7 will be coming up for a vote:

Please contact Fitzpatrick  and urge him to vote for HR 7:

District Office

1717 Langhorne Newtown Rd. Suite 400

Langhorne, PA 19047

Phone: (215) 579-8102

Fax: (215) 579-8109

Washington Office

2400 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-4276

Fax: (202) 225-9511

mikefitzpatrickpa08@live.com

HR 7 (No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion) to be voted on next week....

You can use this form to contact Mike Fitzpatrick on HR 7: https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/NCHLA/Campaigns/34206/Respond.

Harrisburg Update

Support Admitting Privileges legislation

A 1/15/14 piece from Philadelphia Weekly was largely a call to arms AGAINST common sense: "A funny thing happened before the state legislature broke for winter recess: A bipartisan pair of state representatives, Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) and Bryan Barbin (D-Cambria)...started looking for co-sponsors for a bill that would require abortion providers to obtain 'admitting privileges' at hospitals within 30 miles of the clinic where they practice....The problem is, it would stymie the work of clinics whose only nearby hospital doesn’t perform abortions."  The Pa Pro Life Coalition has asked that we urge our House representatives to become co-sponsors of Cutler's and Barbin's "Admitting Privileges" legislation, which is similar to H.B. 1314 from the 2011-2012 term.

Support Marriage / Family and HB 1349 - Oppose HB1647/SB719 

 "A Marriage Protection Amendment to the Pennsylvania State Constitution may be the only way to preserve the definition of marriage as the union between one man and one woman" (Pa Catholic Conference). The Pa Catholic Conference has a web site, to facilitate a message to Governor Corbett, in support of marriage and Pa's DOMA (https://www.votervoice.net/PACC/Campaigns/32995/Respond).

Oppose SB 872

Oppose SB 872, "Prohibiting mental health professionals from engaging in sexual orientation change efforts with an individual under 18 years of age" - Pa's Version of NJ's S2278.  In contrast to philosophies behind SB 872 and S2278, eminent psychiatrist Dr. Rick Fitzgibbons of Montgomery County 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). 

Oppose HB300/SB300

"House Bill 300/Senate Bill 300 would add 'gender identity or expression' and 'sexual orientation' to Pennsylvania's non-discrimination law. Changing the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) to protect people based on sexual attraction and behavior will jeopardize many churches and their charitable outreach.  In other states, this law has shuttered Catholic adoption agencies and trampled religious liberty. HB/SB 300 could mean that Catholic agencies would no longer be able to make our contributions to the common good of Pennsylvania without violating our religious beliefs.

"The law has also caused conflicts for private business owners with legitimate religious and moral concerns.  A bakery in Oregon was investigated by the state because their religious beliefs dictated that they not bake a wedding cake for a same sex couple and other examples include photographers, a t-shirt printer and a cookie shop. All are given the unfair choice: close your business or violate your beliefs.

"In reality, HB/SB 300 exposes even more Pennsylvanians to discrimination. Simply put, this legislation is intolerant and prejudiced against people of faith. Send a message to the legislature urging them to vote "no" on HB/SB 300 " (Pennsylvania Catholic Conference).

From Bucks County, HB300/SB300 is being co-sponsored by Rep. Tina Davis,  Rep. John Galloway, Sen. Chuck McIlhinney, Rep. Marguerite Quinn, Rep. Steve Santarsiero, Rep. Scott Petri, and Rep. Katherine Watson (cf. http://legiscan.com/PA/bill/HB300/2013 and http://legiscan.com/PA/bill/sB300/2013).  Though the Pa Catholic Conference calls HB/SB 300 "intolerant and prejudiced against people of faith," as many as 28 original co-sponsors are "Catholic" (i.e., Reps Brendan Boyle, Thomas Caltagirone, Mike Carroll, Dominic Costa, Paul Costa, Tina Davis (???), Frank Dermody, John Galloway, Patrick Harkins, Joseph Markosek,  Michael McGeehan, Thomas Murt, Eddie Day Pashinski, John Sabatina, Mario Scavello, Thomas Killion, Robert Matzie, and Catherine Harper. Sens Patrick Browne, Jay Costa, Chuck McIlhinney, Lisa Boscola, Wayne Fontana, John Blake, Mike Stack, Sean Wiley, John Yudichak, and Richard Kasunic). 

Though he also identifies himself as "Catholic," Governor Tom Corbett has indicated that he would sign this legislation.

What can you do?

Email Gov. Corbett and all of Bucks County's representatives and senators in Harrisburg (i.e., 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), asking that they OPPOSE HB 300 / SB 300 (as well as SB 872) and SUPPORT Pa's DOMA and Admitting Privileges legislation.

UPDATED Questions for Mike, Bob, & Pa, when you see them in D.C....

There have been very recent and significant developments with regard to several pieces of legislation - most notably HR 7 and the new State Marriage Defense Act. Especially considering that our U.S. Representative and two U.S. Senators each identify themselves as "pro life" Catholics (Yes, that SHOULD be redundant), there are serious questions which deserve answers....

Questions for Mike

Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2013 - Support HR 3279

As per Cardinal O'Malley's 11/1/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, "I am writing to ask your support for Rep.Chris Smith's Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act' (H.R. 3279).  Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 125 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of H.R. 3279?

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

Kudos to Mike Fitzpatrick for being among the 114 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of HR 732.  

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chair of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  Mike Fitzpatrick, will you work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per the USCCB's 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Mike Fitzpatrick, are you committed to voting AGAINST HR 1755?

Federal Marriage Amendment - Support HJ Res 51

As per the Administrative Committee of the USCCB, "We offer general support for a Federal Marriage Amendment to the U.S. Constitution as we continue to work to protect marriage in state legislatures, the courts, the Congress and other appropriate forums" (Reaffirmed on 3/14/06).  On 7/18/06, a majority of the House voted in favor of HJ Res 88, but a 2/3 majority was needed.  Mike Fitzpatrick, you voted AGAINST a Federal Marriage Amendment!  You have indicated that you believe that it is sufficient to defend marriage on a state level.  Seven and a half years later and with marriage/family under steady attack, can you appreciate that you made the wrong call?  Mike Fitzpatrick, will you join the 58 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of H.J. RES. 51?

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

Kudos go to Mike Fitzpatrick for being among the 193 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of HR 940.   

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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....endorsed the companion Marriage and Religious Freedom Act...in the U.S. House of Representatives [i.e., HR 3133]" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 96 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of HR HR 3133?

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

As reported by the Pa Catholic Conference, “In congressional testimony, an official of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has voiced the bishops’ support for H.R. 7....The bipartisan bill was introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to prevent every federal program from funding abortion and abortion coverage on a permanent basis.”  On 1/15/14, HR 7 passed the House Judiciary Committee (cf, LifeSiteNews).    Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 164 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of HR 7?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

Kudos to Mike Fitzpatrick for his favorable vote on 6/18/13. 

State Marriage Defense Act of 2014 - Support HR 3829 

As reported by the Pa Catholic Conference, "Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, applauded the January 9 introduction of the bipartisan State Marriage Defense Act of 2014 (H.R. 3829) in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Randy Weber (R-TX).  'The State Marriage Defense Act is a necessary piece of legislation that will prevent the federal government from unjustly disregarding, in certain instances, state marriage laws concerning the definition of marriage,' said Archbishop Cordileone'....He went on to say, 'The Supreme Court’s decision last year in United States v. Windsor, however, requires the federal government to defer to state marriage law, not disregard it'....'State marriage laws defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman deserve respect by the federal government. This bill does that.'"  Mike Fitzpatrick, you have heretofore defended your inactions on marriage by claiming it to be a "state" issue.  Why on earth are you NOT one of the 38 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of HR 3829?

Questions for Bob

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

As the USCCB previously explained, "a mother in Pennsylvania, where parental involvement is required, testified before Congress that her daughter was taken without her knowledge to New Jersey for a secret abortion by the parents of her daughter's boyfriend.... 'We urge Congress to pass this law to help protect vulnerable girls from this kind of exploitation'" (USCCB, 4/27/05).  Bob Casey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 6 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S.32 and the 28 (as of 1/18/14)  co-sponsors of S.369?

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, will you work work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per its 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Bob Casey, your co-sponsorship and vote in favor of S 815 led to its passage and helped promote discrimination against people of faith.  Disgraceful.

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

As per the USCCB, "All House and Senate members should be urged to support and co-sponsor the Health Care Conscience Rights Act, so our First Freedom can regain its proper place as a fundamental right protected in our health care system."  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT are among the 19 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S 1204?

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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, expressed strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (S. 1808)" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Bob Casey, will you reconsider your promotion of changes to the definition of marriage and join the 16 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S1808? 

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

As reported by the Pa Catholic Conference, “In congressional testimony, an official of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has voiced the bishops’ support for H.R. 7....The bipartisan bill was introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to prevent every federal program from funding abortion and abortion coverage on a permanent basis.”  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT among the 24 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of senate version S 946  - especially when you have no co-sponsors for your own S 142 ?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

As per a 6/14/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives from Cardinal O'Malley, "I urge you to support the common-sense reform offered by H.R. 1797." As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT among the 40 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of senate version S. 1670 and NOT among the 34 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of senate version S. 886?

 

Questions for Pat 

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

As the USCCB previously explained, "a mother in Pennsylvania, where parental involvement is required, testified before Congress that her daughter was taken without her knowledge to New Jersey for a secret abortion by the parents of her daughter's boyfriend.... 'We urge Congress to pass this law to help protect vulnerable girls from this kind of exploitation'" (USCCB, 4/27/05).  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, why are your NOT among the 6 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S.32?  Kudos to you for being one of the 28 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S.369.

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, will you work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per its 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Your vote in favor of S 815 led to its passage and helped promote discrimination against people of faith.  Disgraceful.

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

Kudos to Pat Toomey for being one of the the 19 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S 1204.

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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, expressed strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (S. 1808)" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Pat Toomey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 16 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S1808? 

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

As reported by the Pa Catholic Conference, “In congressional testimony, an official of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has voiced the bishops’ support for H.R. 7....The bipartisan bill was introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to prevent every federal program from funding abortion and abortion coverage on a permanent basis.”    As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 24 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of senate version S 946?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

Kudos to Pat Toomey for being among the 40 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S. 1670 and the 34 (as of 1/18/14) co-sponsors of S. 886.  

Questions for Mike, Bob, & Pat, when you visit DC on the March for Life

Questions for Mike

Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2013 - Support HR 3279

As per Cardinal O'Malley's 11/1/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, "I am writing to ask your support for Rep.Chris Smith's Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act' (H.R. 3279).  Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 123 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of H.R. 3279?

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

Kudos to Mike Fitzpatrick for being among the 113 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of HR 732.  

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chair of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  Mike Fitzpatrick, will you work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per the USCCB's 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Mike Fitzpatrick, are you committed to voting AGAINST HR 1755?

Federal Marriage Amendment - Support HJ Res 51

As per the Administrative Committee of the USCCB, "We offer general support for a Federal Marriage Amendment to the U.S. Constitution as we continue to work to protect marriage in state legislatures, the courts, the Congress and other appropriate forums" (Reaffirmed on 3/14/06).  On 7/18/06, a majority of the House voted in favor of HJ Res 88, but a 2/3 majority was needed.  Mike Fitzpatrick, you voted AGAINST a Federal Marriage Amendment!  You have indicated that you believe that it is sufficient to defend marriage on a state level.  Seven and a half years later and with marriage/family under steady attack, can you appreciate that you made the wrong call?  Mike Fitzpatrick, will you join the 57 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of H.J. RES. 51?

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

Kudos go to Mike Fitzpatrick for being among the 191 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of HR 940.   

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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....endorsed the companion Marriage and Religious Freedom Act...in the U.S. House of Representatives [i.e., HR 3133]" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 94 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of HR HR 3133?

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

In his 11/1/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Cardinal O'Malley notes the USCCB's support for HR 7 (introduced by Representative Chris Smith).  Mike Fitzpatrick, why are you ignoring requests to join the 151 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of HR 7?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

Kudos to Mike Fitzpatrick for his favorable vote on 6/18/13.  

Questions for Bob

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

As the USCCB previously explained, "a mother in Pennsylvania, where parental involvement is required, testified before Congress that her daughter was taken without her knowledge to New Jersey for a secret abortion by the parents of her daughter's boyfriend.... 'We urge Congress to pass this law to help protect vulnerable girls from this kind of exploitation'" (USCCB, 4/27/05).  Bob Casey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 6 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S.32 and 28 (as of 1/11/14)  co-sponsors of S.369?

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  As you each identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, will you work work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per its 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Bob Casey, your co-sponsorship and vote in favor of S 815 led to its passage and helped promote discrimination against people of faith.  Disgraceful.

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

As per the USCCB, "All House and Senate members should be urged to support and co-sponsor the Health Care Conscience Rights Act, so our First Freedom can regain its proper place as a fundamental right protected in our health care system."  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT are among the 17 co-sponsors of S 1204?

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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, expressed strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (S. 1808)" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Bob Casey, will you reconsider your promotion of changes to the definition of marriage and join the 15 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S1808? 

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

In his 11/1/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Cardinal O'Malley notes the USCCB's support for HR 7 (introduced by Representative Chris Smith).  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT among the 24 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of senate version S 946  - especially when you have no co-sponsors for your own S 142 ?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

As per a 6/14/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives from Cardinal O'Malley, "I urge you to support the common-sense reform offered by H.R. 1797." As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Bob Casey, why are you NOT among the 40 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of senate version S. 1670 and NOT among the 34 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of senate version S. 886?

 

Questions for Pat 

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

As the USCCB previously explained, "a mother in Pennsylvania, where parental involvement is required, testified before Congress that her daughter was taken without her knowledge to New Jersey for a secret abortion by the parents of her daughter's boyfriend.... 'We urge Congress to pass this law to help protect vulnerable girls from this kind of exploitation'" (USCCB, 4/27/05).  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, why are your NOT among the 6 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S.32?  Kudos to you for being one of the 28 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S.369.

De-Fund Planned Parenthood

In a 4/13/11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, then chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called for de-funding Planned Parenthood.  As per the American Life League's 2013 Study on Planned Parenthood Federation of America, "neither the American taxpayer nor healthcare in general benefits by funding an organization dedicated (by choice) to abortion."  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, will you work to de-fund Planned Parenthood?

Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2013 (ENDA) - Oppose HR 1755 / S 815

As per its 10/31/13 letter to the U.S. Senate, "the USCCB continues to promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds, including those related to homosexual inclination or sexual identity. But we cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination."  Your vote in favor of S 815 led to its passage and helped promote discrimination against people of faith.  Disgraceful.

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

Kudos to Pat Toomey for joining the 17 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S 1204 on 1/7/14.

Marriage and Religious Freedom Act - Support HR 3133/S1808

"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, expressed strong support for the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act (S. 1808)" (USCCB Chairmen Praise Introduction of the ‘Marriage and Religious Freedom Act’ in the Senate, 12/12/13).  Pat Toomey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 15 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S1808? 

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

In his 11/1/13 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Cardinal O'Malley notes the USCCB's support for HR 7 (introduced by Representative Chris Smith).  As you identify yourself as “pro life,” Pat Toomey, why are you ignoring requests to join the 15 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of senate version S 946?

Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act - Support HR 1797/ S 1670 / S 886

Kudos to Pat Toomey for being among the 40 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S. 1670 and the 34 (as of 1/11/14) co-sponsors of S. 886.