S.C. diocese critical of priest's Obama comments

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S.C. diocese critical of priest's Obama comments

Story Published: Nov 14, 2008 at 9:13 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 17, 2008 at 9:19 PM EST

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - The state's Roman Catholic Diocese says a South Carolina priest should not have told parishioners who voted for President-elect Barack Obama to refrain from taking Holy Communion because of his stance on abortion.

Monsignor Martin T. Laughlin said Friday in a statement on the diocese's Web site that the Rev. Jay Scott Newman ``diverted the focus from the Church's clear position against abortion.''

Newman released a letter this week to parishioners at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Greenville.

He said they were putting their souls at risk if they take Holy Communion without doing penance because of Obama's position on abortion.

Laughlin wrote that Newman's statements do not adequately reflect church teachings.

Newman did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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Friday, Nov 14 at 9:41 PM Lisa wrote ...

Apparently this priest don't "get it". This moment was already ordained to happen over 2500 yrs ago. As the book of Jeremiah states: "I know the plans I have for you" It wasn't like God woke up on Nov. 5th and said "how did that happen?" God knows EVERYTHING! Even the secret places in your own heart. Don't use the pulpit to speak so carelessly. You will someday have to answer for that. Being President can't get you closer to Heaven no more than you being a Priest. Leave the guilt trips alone.

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