SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A dispute has erupted in the Catholic Church over the Archdiocese of Chicago's decision to honor Senator Dick Durbin, a figure known for his support of abortion rights. Cardinal Blase Cupich recently announced that the archdiocese would present a lifetime achievement award to the senior Democrat for his contributions to immigration advocacy at a fundraising event on November 3.
This banner event coincides with a significant uptick in immigration enforcement in the Chicago area, where federal authorities have reported 550 arrests, a situation that complicates the backdrop against which the award is given.
Senator Durbin's conflicting stance on abortion — while he personally disapproves, he supports abortion rights — has made him a target for criticism from Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield. Paprocki expressed deep concern about the implications of honoring the senator, stating, This decision risks causing grave scandal, confusing the faithful about the Church's unequivocal teaching on the sanctity of human life.”
Circular discussions continue within the Catholic community about the intersection of faith and politics, reiterated by Bishop Paprocki’s statements emphasizing the need for clarity in teachings. Cardinal Cupich defended the award, stating, Catholic teaching on life and dignity cannot be reduced to a single issue, even an issue as important as abortion. He insists that Durbin’s efforts, particularly on behalf of immigrants, should not be overlooked in their deliberations.
Durbin, who announced he will not seek reelection, has been under fire for his beliefs from various church leaders historically, including being denied Communion in his home diocese. This longstanding tension culminated following the 2004 election of John Kerry, another Catholic politician criticized for his abortion stance at the time. The scenario has evolved further with the candidacy of Joe Biden, who also faced scrutiny from bishops despite receiving Communion.
Bishop Paprocki's appeal emphasizes traditional Catholic doctrine, significantly focusing on the sanctity of life, while many lay Catholics express diverging views, particularly highlighted in a recent AP-NORC poll indicating that a majority oppose withholding Communion from politicians who champion abortion rights. The rift exemplifies the challenges faced by church authorities amid changing societal values and political landscapes.
As the Archdiocese's event approaches, discussions about the moral responsibilities of Catholic politicians grow more paramount, alongside the Church's responses to the broader cultural shifts regarding issues of life, dignity, and the right to choose.
