Daniel Cardinal DiNardo defended the Church’s involvement in removing abortion from the House version of the health care bill after a storm of criticism was leveled against the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) of “lobbying” concerning the last minute addition of the Stupak Amendment.

“We would say: If you call it lobbying, we’re lobbying on moral issues that relate to the public square and we feel we have, as religious leaders, a place in that debate with others,”

Cardinal DiNardo became chair of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities at the USCCB.  He is also the ordinary of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.  His Eminence represents a growing cadre of bishops that are leading their flocks out of the wilderness bravely in a fallen world.

All throughout 2009 many bishops have entered the national debate in regards to defending fundamental moral values and rectifying misinformation from wayward Catholics in political life.  This year seems to be the year the bishops found their voice.  Not since Francis Cardinal Spellman graced the New York Archdiocese have we seen the faithful being led with strong ecclesial leadership from all parts of the country.

Addressing the criticism directed at religious leaders speaking up on these important issues Cardinal DiNardo said,

“Whatever the polls say, that would not determine going into the public square on those issues,”

“For us, the role of the human person, it’s a religious and a moral and ethical principle.”

“We believe legislation that violates this moral principle is not true health care reform and must be amended to reflect it. If that fails, the current legislation should be opposed,”

The current legislation should be opposed.  Expect a resolute voice against any abortion wording in the Senate debate, especially behind closed doors.

“We’re going to work very hard to speak to senators,”

Let us continue praying for our shepherds as they fight the good fight in defense of the most vulnerable among us.

Ora pro nobis!

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To read the interview of Daniel Cardinal DiNardo by Moises Mendoza of the Houston Chronicle click here.