Statement of Bishop Tobin in Response to Congressman Patrick Kennedy

Rhode Island Catholic: “In February 21, 2007, I wrote to Congressman Kennedy stating: ‘In light of the Church’s clear teaching, and your consistent actions, therefore, I believe it is inappropriate for you to be receiving Holy Communion and I now ask respectfully that you refrain from doing so.’ . . . I have no desire to continue the discussion of Congressman Kennedy’s spiritual life in public. At the same time, I will absolutely respond publicly and strongly whenever he attacks the Catholic Church, misrepresents the teachings of the Church, or issues inaccurate statements about my pastoral ministry.”

LifeNews: Catholic Bishop: Patrick Kennedy Misrepresenting Letter on Communion, Abortion

AP: “Kennedy dispute reveals divide among Catholics”
“If you’re required (by the church) to make everybody follow your Catholic role, then nobody would vote for Catholics because it’s clear that when you get the authority, you’re going to be guided by your faith,” the former governor [Mario Cuomo] told the AP.