Bishops Regret Participation in White House Meeting

Two Catholic bishops expressed remorse after attending a White House meeting that led to a publicized photo of them praying with President Trump. Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob released a statement titled “A Public Apology” on Sunday. He received numerous queries and comments, some from distressed individuals, regarding the meeting which took place on Thursday with 11 other bishops.

Grob said the White House hastily shared photos and a video without the participants’ consent, just under two weeks before the midterm elections. He shared his feelings of sadness, emphasizing the pain caused and his concern about the manipulation of a sacred religious act.

The Bishop of Des Moines, Iowa, William Joensen, also issued a statement, expressing distress over the perceived exploitation by the White House. Joensen wished he had been more discerning, recognizing the political motives behind the meeting. He committed to remain open to engaging with political leaders while praying for wisdom and prudence in future interactions.

When asked about the consent of the bishops for releasing the photos and video, the White House press office did not provide a clear answer. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers emphasized President Trump’s dedication to Catholic Americans.

The invitation extended to the bishops in September included discussions on immigration enforcement, religious worker visas, abortion, and the use of federal tax credits for private education. Joensen and Grob clarified that the meeting was not an endorsement of the president.

Grob noted the White House’s swift publication of the meeting’s details, causing concern about his unintended involvement in a political event just weeks before a national election. Some individuals expressed distress, citing harm from the president’s policies. Grob stressed the bishops’ intent to improve human welfare and engage in prayer, not to serve a political agenda.

Grob concluded by stating he wished he had trusted his reservations. He acknowledged the concerns, apologized for any harm, and affirmed his intent to work for the common good.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops holds varied opinions about President Trump and his policies. Bishop Robert Barron of Minnesota participated in Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission. Meanwhile, other bishops criticized the president’s stringent immigration policies as contradicting Catholic teachings.