Pro-abortion Congressman to speak at Catholic college

Boston, Mass., May 10, 2007 / 10:26 am

Pro-abortion Congressman Edward J. Markey is expected to speak at Boston College Law School’s 2007 commencement ceremony.

College Law Dean John H. Garvey lauded Markey as "one of the most distinguished graduates of Boston College Law School, whose career of public service reflects the very best values and traditions of the school."

In 2006, Markey was one of 55 Catholic Democrats who signed a declaration that said the signatories agreed with the Church on the value of human life. But rather than opposing abortion, the group advocated for "reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies and creating an environment with policies that encourage pregnancies to be carried to term. We believe this includes promoting alternatives to abortion."

In addition to Boston College Law, 12 other Catholic colleges featured pro-abortion speakers and honorees during commencement ceremonies this spring, reported LifeSiteNews.com. That number dropped considerably since 2006, when 24 Catholic US institutions invited speakers who endorsed positions opposed to Church teaching.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ June 2004 document, titled "Catholics in Political Life", states that Catholic institutions "should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions."