Cardinal says faith shapes political conscience for voters, lawmakers

Published: 2004-05-04

DUBUQUE, Iowa (CNS) -- Chicago's cardinal told an Iowa audience that voters should question how a public official "can compartmentalize faith and life and still be a person of integrity." "Whether as a voter or an officeholder, faith shapes a believer's conscience," Cardinal Francis E. George said. But he also noted that he is growing weary of being asked if he would give Communion to those who support legal abortion. "I've been asked that question so often lately that I have considered a policy of denying Communion to reporters," he quipped. The cardinal made the comments in response to questions after delivering a talk on "Leadership in the Catholic Church" at Loras College in Dubuque. He presented the spring 2004 Msgr. James Barta Distinguished Lecture April 27.

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