Catholic bishops approve steps toward possible rebuke of Biden

U.S. Catholic bishops overwhelmingly approved the drafting of a “teaching document” that many of them hope will rebuke Catholic politicians, including U.S. President Joe Biden, for receiving communion despite their support for abortion rights.

The decision, vehemently opposed by a minority of bishops, came despite appeals from the Vatican for a more cautious and collegial approach to the divisive issue. And it raises questions of how closely the bishops will be able to co-operate with the Biden administration on issues such as immigration and racial injustice.

The result of the vote — 168 in favour and 55 against — was announced Friday near the end of a three-day meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops that was held virtually.

Supporters of the measure said a strong rebuke of Biden is needed because of his recent actions protecting and expanding abortion access, while opponents warned that such action would portray the bishops as a partisan force during a time of bitter political divisions across the country.

Biden, who attends mass regularly, says he personally opposes abortion, but doesn’t think he should impose that position on Americans who feel otherwise. He’s taken several executive actions during his presidency that were hailed by abortion-rights advocates.

Biden was asked Friday about the possibility that the bishops would approve a document suggesting that his abortion stance should disqualify him from receiving communion. “That’s a private matter, and I don’t think that’s going to happen,” the president said without elaborating.