For the first time since his election in May, Pope Leo XIV has ventured into U.S. politics, making notable comments regarding the pro-life stance. His remarks specifically targeted individuals who oppose abortion yet support the death penalty, stating that such a position is not genuinely pro-life. This statement was made during an interview late Tuesday, reflecting the Pope's stance on key moral issues.
Pope Leo XIV, a native of Chicago, was asked about plans by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich to honor Illinois Senator Dick Durbin with a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to immigration reform. This recognition faced backlash from some conservative U.S. bishops due to Durbin's support for abortion rights. In response, Leo emphasized the need for respect in discussions around these contentious issues but highlighted the contradictions present in the discourse.
“Someone who says 'I'm against abortion but supports the death penalty' is not really pro-life,” Leo asserted. He extended this critique to those who oppose abortion while agreeing with the inhumane treatment of immigrants in the United States, questioning the authenticity of their pro-life claims. This perspective aligns with a common argument within the Catholic Church, which emphasizes the sanctity of life across various contexts.
Hours before Cardinal Cupich announced that Senator Durbin had opted to decline the award, the Pope commented on the broader implications of recognizing a senator with a 40-year history of public service. “I think it's important to look at the overall work that a senator has done,” Leo stated during the press conference, responding to a question from EWTN News.
While addressing the Illinois situation, Pope Leo XIV refrained from mentioning former President Donald Trump, whose administration had intensified immigration enforcement in the Chicago area. However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt countered the Pope's concerns by asserting that there is no inhumane treatment of illegal immigrants under the current administration, emphasizing that efforts are being made to enforce immigration laws humanely.
The Catholic Church’s teachings are unequivocal: abortion is forbidden, and capital punishment is deemed inadmissible under any circumstances. Both U.S. bishops and the Vatican have issued strong calls for the humane treatment of migrants, invoking the Biblical mandate to welcome strangers. In his comments, Pope Leo underscored the need for a respectful dialogue on various ethical issues, urging Americans to collectively explore paths forward.
Cardinal Cupich, a close advisor to Pope Francis, defended his decision to honor Durbin for his immigration advocacy amidst a politically polarized environment. He expressed that many U.S. Catholics feel politically homeless, as neither major political party fully embodies the comprehensive teachings of the Catholic Church. In a statement, Cupich indicated that the planned award ceremony could serve as an opportunity to engage political leaders on critical issues, including abortion.
After Durbin declined the award, Bishop Thomas Paprocki from Springfield—where Durbin is barred from receiving Communion—expressed gratitude for the senator's decision. He urged all Catholics to pray for the Church, the nation, and the dignity of all individuals, emphasizing respect for life at every stage, including that of the unborn and immigrants. This ongoing dialogue highlights the complexities surrounding pro-life issues and the varying interpretations of what it truly means to uphold the sanctity of life in contemporary society.
