Archbishop Naumann responds to Pres. Obama's proposed HHS modifications
Statement by Archbishop Joseph Naumann, February 10, 2012.
President Obama’s announcement today modifying the HHS mandate gives a glimmer of hope that the Administration is taking seriously the outcry against the infringement upon religious liberty and freedom of conscience created by the HHS mandate. It is impossible with the information provided thus far to make a judgment upon how much the proposed modification will solve the plethora of problems created by the mandate. As the current crisis has made us painfully aware, the devil is in the details. From the limited details that are available, I have particular concerns about the impact on religious institutions that are self-insured. I also have concern about what relief this modification provides to Catholic business owners who desire to provide high quality health insurance to their employees without paying for morally objectionable procedures and/or pharmaceuticals. The past actions and promises of the President and his Administration do not inspire confidence.
The Catholic Church and the HHS Mandate
Last weekend you heard from Archbishop Naumann about the HHS Mandate that infringes on our religious liberties. The plan would require most Catholic institutions (outside of churches and dioceses) to provide contraception and other coverages that violate church teaching. The Archdiocese has prepared a series of web pages with links to help you learn about why this HHS "preventative services" coverage is so deterimental to our faith and our religious liberty,
Archbishop's Letter (English) Carta del arzobispo (en español)
HHS Mandate - what does it mean for Catholics?
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops staunchly opposes the mandate that all employers should include abortion and contraceptive coverage in health insurance -- this includes many Catholic entities with employees. Learn the facts and how to voice your opinion to legislators at the USCCB web page on Conscience Protection.
World Marriage Day - This Sunday, Feb. 12
Marriage as Sacrament: The Healing Power of Love is the theme at this Mass, which will include a renewal of marriage vows. Archbishop Joseph Naumann will be the homilist. Libby and Brad DuPont of the Archdiocesan Family Life Office give a brief reflection. Reception and refreshments, too. St. Theresa Parish, KCMO, 3 p.m. All are welcome! More information.
Pilgrimage to the International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin
The Archdiocese has planned a group travel package to attend the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin, Ireland, from June 13-21, 2012. Archbishop Emeritus James Keleher and Father Richard McDonald will escort pilgrims to the Congress., which runs June 15-17. Following the congress, the group will visit the Marian Shrine at Knock, Galway, Ballintubber Abbey, Dingle, Killarnye, Kerry and more before returning home. Cost is $2,999 plus taxes and fuel surcharges, tips, and the Congress registration fee. The brochure and registration forms are available at www.GoCatholicTravel.com/Keleher. Participation is limited so early registration is recommended. For more information, contact Rose Hammes at 913- 647-0346, or by email.