PROVIDENCE, RI - Rhode Island's Roman Catholic bishop and Congressman Patrick Kennedy have scheduled a meeting next week to discuss their public dispute on abortion and healthcare reform.
Providence Bishop Thomas Tobin says he wants to discuss Kennedy's relationship to the church and its teachings at the November 12 meeting. The Democratic lawmaker last month criticized church leaders who oppose universal healthcare plans unless the plans specifically exclude abortions. Tobin called Kennedy's remarks "irresponsible." Tobin said he wants to reaffirm to Kennedy the church's overall support for healthcare reform but will also stress its opposition to abortion. He adds that Kennedy, as a Catholic, must accept the church's abortion position.
Providence Bishop Thomas Tobin says he wants to discuss Kennedy's relationship to the church and its teachings at the November 12 meeting.
The Democratic lawmaker last month criticized church leaders who oppose universal healthcare plans unless the plans specifically exclude abortions. Tobin called Kennedy's remarks "irresponsible."
Tobin said he wants to reaffirm to Kennedy the church's overall support for healthcare reform but will also stress its opposition to abortion. He adds that Kennedy, as a Catholic, must accept the church's abortion position.
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