Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Achilles, Las Vegas, NV — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:38:11 GMT

The headline is a bit sensational considering the predictable, tepid opposition. Yawn......Hardly newsworthy.

Certainly there are more interesting things to write about boys.....

Achilles, Las Vegas

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Richard, Topeka, KS — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:40:11 GMT

Led by a Pope who condemns the use of condoms to fight STD's an equally tiny minded group now condemns free speech. And the funny part is that they think that they are "enlightened".

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Michelle, military wife in Germany — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:45:02 GMT

Hmmm...it sounds more like this is a Republican alumni backlash rather than a "Catholic" backlash.

In his community organizer days, Obama worked closely with Catholics, along with other christian groups.

Perhaps it's time for us all to get over ourselves, take our hands off of our hips and the chips off of our shoulders. Seriously, there are important issues in this world right now...too important to spend time arguing over whether our President will speak at a Catholic University.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

nuanced — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:48:41 GMT

Oh puleeze! This is a crock to make it sound like it has something to do with religious indignation, which in itself would be anti-democratic. There is nothing but pure Republican politics behind this. It is part of their bag of dirty tricks. The Catholic Church is against divorce but Ronald Reagan spoke. The Catholic Church is against the death penalty and G.W.Bush enjoyed running a bloodbath of executions in Texas even making fun of the condemned.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Clara Kansas City, MO — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:49:03 GMT

I think this is a healthy demonstration of democracy. I think President Obama is doing a great job of facing opposition straight on.
----
BTW, I am 14 of 16 in my bracket and in 4th place in the office pool! Come on Thursday, hurry up and get here!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Michael — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:51:10 GMT

unfortunately people tend to create their identity around their beliefs and as such are the subject to BLM disease (be like me) which is actually antithetical to the message of Jesus...it isn't "Love thy neighbor as long as he is like thyself" it's "Love thy neighbor as thyself" And therefor the intolerance that is the hallmark of many dying religions rears it's head in the attempt for conformity by rejection. At least Jenkins is an open enough leader to respect that while there are differences, nothing gets resolved through simple positionality eliminating dialogue...

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

eagle1776 — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:53:58 GMT

If he is there to talk about abortion or sex education or related topics they would have reason to not want him to speak however I doubt these topics will come up in his speech and so they ought to let him speak. When are we going to separtate the secular from the religion in our government.

I went to a Catholic college and not once did we ban any speaker from speaking on any topic. We had the freedom on campus to express ourselves. Others may not have agreed but they could have their turn to refute us. That is something called free speech. Perhaps the Constitution has been so beaten up these past several years that people have forgotten.

In the University I attended we had teachers and students from all religions and some with no religion at all. We were there for an education not indoctrnation.

No I did not attend Notre Dame.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

CdV LA CA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:55:51 GMT

“A good college education anywhere introduces new ways of looking at the world and shakes up students' perspectives. Because students come in conservative but not strongly formed, it makes sense that many experience an ideological shift to the left.”

This is what the republicans don't get. Education and evolution has spurred this "ideological shift to the left." It is truly a shift to tolerance and inclusion. Until the Repubs understand that they must be tolerant and inclusive of "new ideology," they will be preaching to their base and not much more.

No matter what the Catholic church preaches (and yes, I'm a recovering Catholic) the percentages cited in this article show that it's important to move beyond 15th, 16th,...19th century ideals. It's 2009 now, women don't wear long skirts and cover their arms as they did in 1909, and they won't stand for someone else telling what they can and can't do with their bodies.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

The Official — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:55:56 GMT

A majority of people now hate Obama.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Michael — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:56:27 GMT

unfortunately some people tend to create their identity around their beliefs and as such are the subject to Be Like Me disease. This is antithetical to the message of Jesus...it isn't "Love thy neighbor as long as he is like thyself" it's "Love thy neighbor as thyself" And therefore the intolerance of many people's beliefs rears it's head in the attempt for conformity by rejection. Clearly Dr. Jenkins is an open enough leader to respect that while there are differences, nothing gets resolved through simple positionality eliminating dialogue...

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Gary Player, Grand Rapids, MI — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:56:51 GMT

Most Catholics are weak when it comes to standing up for the "perceived" values that they are suppose to emulate and profess. Ted Kennedy & Nancy Pelosi are "Catholics" but if you look at their voting record, you would not know that. If you are a "true practicing Catholic" you would not support abortion, a weak defence, etc. There are many references in the Bible of "God's people" standing up against the enemy who are trying to put paganistic idols in front of them. Look around the world, there are a few (so called) religions who are trying to destroy the Christian faith (of which Catholicism is a part of) and most of the (so called) Christian poiticians are sitting back and allowing it. God states in the Bible to stand up against those who want to destroy "the good". Killing an inocent child, born or unborn, is destroying something God has created and man has a need to destroy. Those politicians (Kennedy & Pelosi, and others) who profess to be Catholic & Obama who claims to be a Christian, should examine their beliefs before stating they are such. Allowing him a platform to campaign his point of view is a poor choice for an opportunity for a Catholic university to promote itself as a Christian college.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Ricky ReTardo — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:57:11 GMT

Lot's of Special Olympians go to Notre Dame.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Santa Fe, NM — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:02:13 GMT

I'm sick of this theocracy that the various religions are trying to impose on us. There's nothing wrong with a belief in God until organized religion turns it into an insulting faith-based weapon of mass destruction. The only difference between the christians and the muslims is the level of violence they afflict in the name of their God, but the christians are quickly catching up after 8 years of Bush's "God wills it" scorched earth policies.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Art Hut — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:04:51 GMT

While I can see the reason for diversity and different
opinions. I think Notre Dame is violating their Catholicity by inviting the President who goes against all Catholic principles. What type of message are we setting as Catholics, sponsoring an
abortionist to speak, it's a disgrace. No wonder some
Catholic institutions are called Hypocrites.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

SAM, USA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:07:32 GMT

Oh for petes sakes - this is getting ridiculous. Alumni doesn't want him to speak. Fine go ask George W. to come back and speak - hopefully they will treat him as Canada did.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Kelly Wing, Wyoming, MN — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:17:18 GMT

This argument is a red-herring. It doesn't matter what the students think- it matters what the University's charter is. Under Catholic precepts, it is pro-life. The school cannot call itself Catholic yet undertake actions that are anti-Catholic. Shame on ND. They should cancel the invitation.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mandy Pepperidge, South Bend IN — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:21:15 GMT

He's, he's, he's black!!!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Doug Neidermeyer — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:22:15 GMT

Couldn't Notre Dame get someone important?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Dr. Geroge R. Kokaska — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:28:44 GMT

This president is a disgrace and an insult to every American. I have an Ed.D. Loyola University, Chicago and consider this a terrible choice from N.D. We, the people, do not want this fraud at any Catholic university in America. He is a liar, a killer of human life, a weak leader, and has no respect for the handicapped. He is best used at a rev wright rally that hates America.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Eric, San Mateo, CA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:30:17 GMT

Fr. Jenkins is leading Notre Dame astray. He isn't inviting him "because we care so much about [life] issues." Obama isn't being invited to a dialogue on life issues - but to a commencement address at which Obama will be given an honorary degree.

The bottom line is this: Notre Dame is supposed to be a Catholic University. It isn't a secular institution like the Naval Academy and ASU. As a Catholic University, Notre Dame has a responsibility to remain faithful to what the Church teaches. It is very simple: in 2004, the United States Catholic Bishops issued a document, Catholics in Political Life, which states, "The Catholic community and 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."

Notre Dame, which is supposed to be a Catholic University, is flouting Church teaching. Obama is the biggest proponent of abortion in the history of the presidency.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Justine Case — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:30:57 GMT

Obama?! What, couldn't they get Geithner?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Gail, TN — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:31:03 GMT

“A good college education anywhere introduces new ways of looking at the world and shakes up students' perspectives."

I agree with Mike Laskey. Learning to keep an open mind and to appreciate others' points of view are among the most important lessons of college. President Obama exemplifies the ability to do this. Hopefully the students will appreciate the President's wisdom in how to engage with people with whom you disagree, and will appreciate the honor of having him speak at their commencement.

The day we allow ourselves to stop being "shaken up" by different perspectives, is the day we start to die intellectually.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

L Devol, tTraverse City, MI — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:33:10 GMT

Doesn't it seem as though Notre Dame would be able to find a solid practicing catholic to give the commencement address? Someone who the students could connect with and emulate? Many students object to having President Obama address their class, but it falls on deaf ears. Fr. John Jenkins is not listening. What is the honor he speaks of in having Obama speak? Many of the students and alumni do not feel that this is an honor at all. They feel betrayed, by their oum university president. They are asking for his support in their beliefs. He is not listening.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Deb Ferrell-Lynn — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:43:29 GMT

Is Notre Dame REALLY a Catholic university? How strongly commited to church doctrine is it? So what if Obama supported legislation to strengthen abortion RIGHTS? He voted against legislation that woudl make it a crime to knowingly kill an unborn child, but so what? He offers HOPE and is the soon-to-be savior of our nation. Notre Dame has sold its soul to have a abortion rights Leftist delive its commencement address because he's cool, hip, and young. God help us.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Don Parner, Alpharetta, GA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:46:29 GMT

The Catholic Church is clear in its rejection of abortion. No pro-abortion person, republican or democrat should speak at the commencement. Notre Dame needs to step up and represent the beliefs of it leadership (Vatican).

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mike Hernan, Canton OH — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:46:36 GMT

Are the "cafeteria catholics" running that school too?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jane Mitchell, Buffalo, NY — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:48:16 GMT

If Rev. Jenkins wanted to form "the basis of an engagement" with President Obama, he should do it in a class, a symposium, a debate... anything but the formal academic celebration of commencement. By doing so, he is in direct violation of the U.S. Bishop's directive to avoid giving "awards, honors, or platform" to anyone, U.S. President or otherwise, who actively pursuits anti-Christian agendas. By inviting this anti-life man to speak, receive a doctorate, and act as keynote speaker, the administration has done all three. And he does it at the expense of the graduates and their families. What great pain, what great, unnecessary pain, he has brought upon the Notre Dame family and the entire American Church with this serious error.

No matter what Rev. Jenkins says, this is a tacit approval of the President's actions. He has, in effect, endorsed cafeteria Catholicism. He cannot "honor" the President while ignoring his anti-life record. It's like saying, "Well, we're not fans of all the concentration camps, but didn't that fellow in Berlin build some great roads! Let's give him a civil engineering award!"

It's heartbreaking.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Tom, Tulsa, OK — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:49:02 GMT

Religious fanatics, please shut up!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

M.B.F, Gibsonia, PA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:49:16 GMT

This is an absolute disgrace!

UND '83

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

James Smyth, Tampa, Florida — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:50:30 GMT

A Catholic Institution must be true to its core principles. Abortion is murder. This president has supported abortion.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Anne T. Finnegan — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:50:32 GMT

I decry the day that Notre Dame left Catholicism. I no longer consideer it a Catholic Univeerty.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jim Panyard - Palmyra, PA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:52:27 GMT

Father Jenkins - You can serve God or the World. Not both

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Robert Sidor, Bear Lake, Michigan — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:52:50 GMT

The President should be welcome anywhere in his own country. The real disgrace is the secular university Notre Dame has become.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

LR McClain — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:52:52 GMT

Father Jenkins should ask the Pope what he thinks. The Pope would say NO.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

theolesarge — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:53:28 GMT

Obviously the majority of the student body does not adhere to the teachings of the Catholic Church, not an unusual conditon for a liberal university. Father Jenkins owes the university community a more complete and Aquinias-like explanation for the apparent dichotomy between the prestige of having a commencement speech made by a sitting president and the anti-christian policies held by that president and his administration.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Roy Delaney, Fredericksburg, Va — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:54:17 GMT

How can our Catholic leaders, like Father John Jenkins, expect us to stand firm in our faith, to defend it and the Church and those who need our protection - the unborn and disabled, when they welcome a staunch supporter of all that we consider evil into their school. The lay people want our religious leaders to stand strong and put their words into actions. Furthermore, how can Father Jenkins claim that “it was great honors to have the president accept the university’s offer.” How is it an honor for a good practicing Catholic to welcome someone who claims to be good Christians yet support the murder of the unborn, genetic engineering, mocking of the disabled, etc. Would Joseph Stalin, Mao, or Margaret Sanger be welcomed? They advocated much of the same social policies that the current administration is advocating.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

MikeC, Mississippi — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:54:48 GMT

“On the contrary, we invited him, because we care so much about those issues, and we hope … for this to be the basis of an engagement with him."

Yeh, right, Obama will change his stance on the murder of children....doubt it.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mary Wolf Radford, VA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:55:08 GMT

Obama should bow out IF he had any class.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

SFMike, San Francisco, CA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:56:34 GMT

Glad to hear that the student body and recent alums include conservative and devout Catholics, but the Notre Dame administration is extremely liberal. While it is recognized by non-Catholics as THE Catholic university, it's record on keeping in line with Catholic teaching is a joke. Examples include staging "The Vagina Monologues" on campus, funded by student funds, and now hosting the most liberal president who has shown he will work to keep abortion legal at all costs, including allowing infants that are born as a result of a botched abortion to die with no medical assistance. No surprise here.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

JJ Cook — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:56:44 GMT

"We are not ignoring the critical issue of the protection of life,” Jenkins told campus paper. “On the contrary, we invited him because we care so much about those issues and we hope … for this to be the basis of an engagement with him."
If it weren't so naive and comical a statement, it would probably be sad. Father Jenkins is inviting President Obama to see if he can change the President's views on abortion? Whoever buys this lame excuse is likely a ND freshman. It's embarrassing that Jenkins would even try to pander this as his purpose- but then again- PT Barnum WAS right.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

tony baltimore, md — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:59:43 GMT

Obama's Catholic "support" is misleadng because some were under the faulty impression that he was going to find a middle ground on abortion. This was before he rescended the Mexico policy, nominated two pro abortion HHS, resecended the conscience clause and required tax payers to pay for embryo research.

There have been over 40,000 catholics sign a petition asking Notre Dame to not give Obama an honorary degree.
http://notredamescandal.com/

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Pat Villaescusa — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:19 GMT

Obama is the most pro-abortion president in America's history. It is inappropriate for any Catholic institution to honor an individual whose belief in the sanctity of innocent human life is negligible to non-existant. We loyal Catholics in good standing with the church need to cut off the bucks to Notre Dame and to spineless bishops who will not take a stand.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

CJ O'Rourke, New York, NY — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:01:03 GMT

I don't recall the Notre Dame alumni complaining about W.'s visits, even though he dissented from Church teachings on poverty, economics, social justice, and the death penalty.

Seems like some folks just dislike Obama for partisan reasons and are using the faith as a tool for their agenda. I find THAT very disrespectful.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

wfcoyote — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:01:42 GMT

FATHER JOHN YOU ARE A DISGRACE AS A CATHOLIC PRIEST, A REAL CATHOLIC KNOWS THAT ABORTION IS A MORTAL SIN,SHAME ON YOU. MAY GOD FORGIVE YOU,

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

William R. Smith — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:02:24 GMT

Obama may not make the trip on that date, could be canceled. I would expect world events, Arab radicals (and The Mossad) may have something to say about this scheduled speech

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Cody, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:02:43 GMT

Just a correction, Obama beat McCain in Indiana by 1%
I wish it had been 17%

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Elizabeth, Tampa, FL — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:03:01 GMT

It is truly sad to see a university named after the Blessed Virgin Mary abandon its Catholic identity. Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, Mother of the unborn, pray for us!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

JJ Cook — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:03:16 GMT

Why do you pretend that you are filtering these comments for language and offensive style when in fact you are filtering based on your own ideology.I guess that's why MSNBC is in the ratings tank. If one doesn't agree with the MSNBC slant, one's comment simply does not appear anywhere. Heil Hitler ??

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

jawillie Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:03:43 GMT

In other words, GET OVER IT! When Rick Warren was invited to speak at the inauguration, amid protestations from Gay and Lesbian groups, none of these folks said BOO. Obama wants to open dialogue with groups who may not agree with him, and that means the same thing now as it did during the inauguration. DEAL WITH IT!

http://jawillie.blog.com

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Bring me another alter boy — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:05:57 GMT

Yeah, Catholics want to teach us about morality. Religious hypocrasy

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

David G. Regory, New York, NY — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:06:12 GMT

"we hope...for this to be the basis of an engagement with him"-what a joke. I wish any Notre Dame faculty or student to try to ask the One a question about his pro-abortion stance. I think you'll get the same stare down he gave a Politico reporter when asked about lobbyists in his Cabinet. Maybe he should replace his bust of Lincoln (another tyrant) with a statue of a fetus with a needle in its head to commemorate his progressive views.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

John A. Donnelly, Carolina Shores, NC — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:06:49 GMT

The disgust I felt when I read of the invitation prompted me to send Fr. Jenkins a strong letter of dissent with a copy of my 1972 Masters Degree cut into pieces. Fr, Jenkins has raiswed the meaning of political correctness to new hights.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Bryan, Fullerton, CA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:07:39 GMT

First Notre Dame gets in bed with NBC; now it's Obama. Yet another reason to root for the USC Trojans. Fight On, Trojans! Beat the Irish!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Doug Scarsdale NY — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:08:15 GMT

It is a shame that the Catholic universities give voice and stature to legislators who have sold out to the radical pro abortion adjenda. Like obama, jenkins actions speak much louder that his words. What God has hidden from the rich and powerful he has revealed to his little ones.
Doug

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Lysis Luz, Grand Rapids, MI — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:08:43 GMT

Time for Jenkins to have a talk with Dr. Byker of Calvin College and compare notes. There was a dust up there when President GW Bush spoke at commencement a few years ago. Good luck with that, Padre.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Dan Devine (real name) Shorewood,Wi. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:10:53 GMT

Funny i don't remember ND inviting Pres. Bush to speak at a commencement speech. Lets consider the fact that most of the faculty is liberal,and admittedly most of the students come from a conservitive home. So this is just one more venue of indoctrination for your sons and daughters. When they finally graduate,they'll come back home ,for the holidays and you'll hardly recognize them anymore. Catholic Instititution???????

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Matt, Tucson, AZ — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:11:22 GMT

Catholics need to make up their mind whether they follow the Pope or not or the abortion issue. And if they don't, they aren't Catholic. I believe another way to say it is to "crap or get off the toilet".

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Tom Lavin, Panama City, FL. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:13:31 GMT

I don't know about you, but I sent a protest letter to the president of Notre Dame, signed a petition for Fr. Junkins to rescind his offer and asked the Vatican "Pro-Life" congregation to take some action against their renegade priest.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Daniel Hess '06 JD, Cincinnati, OH — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:16:04 GMT

The "ideological shift to the left" noted by Mr. Laskey is directly related to ideological decisions made at Notre Dame in recent decades. The university made the choice to compete with "peer institutions" such as Stanford and the Ivys. The result has been professors and departments that do not necessarily support the Catholic tradition upon which the university was founded.

Notre Dame is therefore risking becoming increasingly indistinguishable from other non-Catholic universities (see also, Georgetown), with its Catholicism relegated to a peculiarity allowed into the forefront when "convenient."

Thankfully this is not an inevitable fate. There is a strong Catholic minority on campus hoping, praying, and working for Notre Dame to claim is pride of place in Catholic higher education. The scandal of our most radically pro-abortion president invited to this esteemed platform only sharpens the present situation and makes Notre Dame's choices for the future more apparent.

Be Catholic. Let this distinctiveness show. Hire for mission. Maintain your identity or scrap the notion of being the premiere "Catholic" university.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

James Carson — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:17:56 GMT

I'm still absolutely stunned that Obama so decisively won the Catholic vote during this past presidential election. Obama is a man whose openly anti-Christian that you simply have to not be paying attention to notice. This is a man who openly states that he doesn't want to "punish" his daughters with a child if they become pregnant. What the hell kind of message is that sending to your kids! As a father, he's a disgrace. In addition, he's perfectly fine with killing a live child that completely out of the mother's woumb. HOW IS THIS NOT INFANTICIDE?!?! And you people wonder why real Catholics are upset that this man is coming to Notre Dame to speak....good grief!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

yo, south bend, in — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:18:44 GMT

i live near ND.
believe me when I tell you that it is a VERY liberal school. yes, there are a few vocal conservatives around, but overall, it is solid obama territory, which is a crying shame for a christian school. the school is christian in name only, though.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Tim — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:18:48 GMT

This man goes against the very basics of protection of human life. He voted against the "Born Alive Infant Protection Act" four times which would require medical help to survivors of late term abortions. He has called abortion survivors "temporarily alive" and unborn babies are "non-viable fetuses". The determination of the begining of life is "above his pay grade". Do you really want to have this man pushing his anti-life agenda on the sacred ground of Notre Dame?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Elizabeth - Texas — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:20:19 GMT

Top 10……Poverty in Our Major Cities

City, State, % of People Below the Poverty Level

1. Detroit , MI
32.5%

2. Buffalo , NY
29.9%

3. Cincinnati , OH
27.8%

4. Cleveland , OH
27.0%

5. Miami , FL
26.9%

5. St. Louis , MO
26.8%

7. El Paso , TX
26.4%

8. Milwaukee , WI
26.2%

9. Philadelph ia , PA
25.1%

10. Newark , NJ
24.2%

U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey, August 2007

What do the top ten cities (over 250,000) with the highest poverty rate all have in common?

Detroit, MI (1st on the poverty rate list) hasn't elected a Republican mayor since 1961;

Buffalo, NY (2nd) hasn't elected one since 1954;

Cincinnati , OH (3rd)....since 1984;

Cleveland , OH (4th)...since 1989;

Miami , FL (5th) has never had a Republican mayor;

St. Louis , MO (6th)....since 1949;

El Paso , TX (7th) has never had a Republican mayor;

Milwaukee , WI (8th)..since 1908;

Philadelphia , PA (9th)...since 1952;

Newark , NJ (10th)....since 1907.

Einstein once said, 'The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.'

It is the poor who habitually elect Democrats---yet they are still .....................
POOR

"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred. You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence. You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves."
Abraham Lincoln

..........................and you, Mr. Obama, are no Abe Lincoln

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Vincent, Fairfield, CT — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:20:19 GMT

I have no problem with ND inviting him. I just hope they don't suppress criticism of his absolutist views on abortion, which would eliminate any restrictions whatsoever, including allowing medical practitioners to opt out on moral grounds. His position on this and other issues is untenable and unacceptable for Catholics, he won them for one reason - the economy.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Ronald herman MD--ND graduate — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:20:28 GMT

This is a total disgrace for Notre Dame and the Catholic Church. Obama is in favor of ABORTION and this is a grave sin in the eyes of the Catholic Church and Notre Dame is Catholic or at least it was until this decision to host this terrible person who is using tax dollars to fund abortion all over the world. Incidentally he is also bringing our country to ruin.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

John Doe — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:21:05 GMT

Everyone at the commencement should turn their backs on the President as he speaks. Either that or throw shoes.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

K R Phoenix AZ — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:21:28 GMT

While everyone it entitled to their own views, Catholics need to speak up to let Father Jenkins that it is NOT acceptable to honor a person that holds such an opposing view to the Church's. A petition is being prepared at the web site, notredamescandal. It already has over 40,000 signatures Please let your voice be heard.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

chris pierce tampa fl — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:21:53 GMT

there are a lot of priests making their way to hell by their silence, or worse, acceptance of laws against the teachings of the catholic church. the life of each human being is sacred to catholic believers. the priest's comment about hoping for dialogue with someone full of zeal for the destruction of unborn babies (or voting for a law allowing those who survive abortions to be left on a metal cart to die in an abortion clinic) is way beyond any true catholic's acceptable opinion-especially a priest. it is a mortal sin. sorry, you obama voters. go to confession-tomorrow

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Luis — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:22:29 GMT

Has anybody thought what Christ might be saying at the spinless position of catholics against obama and the abortion and stem research promoters?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Dave, Orlando, FL — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:23:22 GMT

This article erroneously refers to John Kerry as a Catholic. You cannot be a Catholic and support abortion. Kerry and Nancy Pelosi should be excommunicated.

Catholics were misled into voting for Obama. This error can be undone in the 2010 Congressional Elections.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

AJD, Richmond — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:24:24 GMT

Benedict needs to clamp down on Jenkins. What an embarrassment -- the most anti-live anti-catholic president speaking at the our premier university.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Terry G Plymouth, MN — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:24:25 GMT

Why would the liberal church have a problem with Obama? They support him on Illegals, gun control and everything but abortion! I'm tired of the church taking sides on issues like violating immigration laws and expecting everybody to fall in line with their laws. When I went to Catholic school we were reminded to obey all laws, church and state!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Chris Dickson, Richmond, IN — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:25:40 GMT

From now on, they need to be referred to as "Notre Shame" University!

Send your kids to the Franciscan University of Steubenville if you don't want their heads filled with Liberal, Marxist, Anti-Catholic, Anti-Pope, Anti-Magisterium Propoganda for four years!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Bob, Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:26:26 GMT

Yes and many would have considered it a great honor to have Hitler speak at their institutions when he was the leader of Germany. As always, it's a question of principles. Ask Fr. Jenkins to get some.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Tim O'Brien, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:27:23 GMT

The "priest" that runs Notre Dame needs to remember that he is the head of a Roman Catholic University, and it is that one of the school's primary responsibilities to articulate and deliver Catholic teaching to its student body. It should be a greater honor to uphold the teaching of Christ than to host a sitting president. But, perhaps teaching the tenets of one's faith is not as hip as rubbing elbows with Mr. Obama.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Veronica — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:27:37 GMT

No pro-abortion supporter--like Obama--should ever, ever, EVER BE INVITED TO SPEAK AT A CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY NAMED FOR OUR LADY!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mary C. Crown Point, IN — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:28:14 GMT

Notre Dame lost it's Catholic identity years ago. Dissenters and liberal heretics. The majority of the teachers are not even Catholic. Obama will be quite welcome.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Al Krausse — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:28:58 GMT

ND should allow Obama to speak as they do and have done with other politicans and Presidents. Bush supported death penalty, which is against Catholic doctrine- though I grant I'm not a Papal scholar but now it is not as "against" Catholic doctrine as abortion at least traditionally. But still, John McCain was divorced and has had, alledgedly, other issues which are against traditional Catholic doctrines. So just because someone is pro-Abortion or has links to Muslim beliefs at some point in his life shouldn't be barred from addressing the students. Difference of opinion are good as long as they are recognized.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Hazel Garnett — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:29:15 GMT

The conservatives at Notre Dame ought to stick to teaching and learning and leave the decision to have President Obama speak at the commencement in the same manner as the previous Presidents have.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mike Mattson, Waxhaw, NC — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:30:50 GMT

The reason that a majority of Catholics voted for Obama is that a majority of Catholics don't have a clue what the Catholic Church teaches, or if they do, they arrogantly ignore it. The Catholic Church is not a democracy, it is theologically established by Jesus Christ, according to precepts laid down by Jesus Christ, and handed down through the ages through the vicars of Jesus Christ. If you believe you have a better idea of the doctrines of the Church than the Catechism of the Catholic Church, or prefer to make up your own definitions of Catholic beliefs, it's probably time for you to leave the Church. Abortion flies straight in the face of Thou Shall Not Kill. Moral equivocating that capital punishment (4995 exectutions in the U.S. since 1930), or deaths in war (1.2 million in every war fought since the Revolution) pale in number to the 50,000,000 million abortions since 1973. Further moral equivocations concerning executions due to breaking established laws, and death incurred in the defense of our country, are NOT the equivalent of murdering 50,000,000 defenseless, and innocent babies in what should be the safest place on earth. Obama's support of abortion, and opposition to the Infant Protection Act, place him in stark opposition to the Catholic position on life. He should not be invited to spread his duplicity at Notre Dame.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

ND dropped the ball....again — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:31:14 GMT

"...we invited him, because we care so much about those issues, and we hope … for this to be the basis of an engagement with him."

What a joke. A man with a voting record such as his will never be "engaged" on the issue of abortion. SHAMEFUL!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Katherine Hogendorn, Solon, Iowa — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:32:47 GMT

I love the way Catholics (I was one) pick and choose what they want to believe in. If it isn't convenient, then ignore it.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jim Taipale, caldwell, idaho — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:32:50 GMT

"A good college education anywhere introduces new ways of looking at the world and shakes up students' perspectives". So in other words introduce immorality to the moral, pornagraphy to the pure of heart, deceit to the honest, convenience for the sacrifice of a soul. Funny, I thought it was Father Jenkins job to protect the souls of those entrusted to him, not show his support for the destruction of souls.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mairead91 — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:33:32 GMT

I, too, am appalled at the choice of Obama for the commencement address at the most famous Catholic university in the U.S.! And, to elaborate on his abortion stance, he also approves of the most heinous forms of baby-killing - live-birth abortion, as well as allowing a living baby to die of neglect in a metal pan. I'm ashamed of my years of support and pride in Notre Dame (Latin for Our Lady - who is no doubt sorrowful over this decision). Just one more so-called Catholic institution rolling over for left-wing, socialist Democrats! Shame on Fr. Jenkins! I wonder if the provincial of the Holy Cross Fathers agrees. If so, our faith is in the wrong hands!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

ben, phoenix, az — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:37:40 GMT

It isn't just his position on abortion, it is what he thinks of human life. He condones infanticide, denying treatment to infants who SURVIVE A BOTCHED ABORTION. Ask the Chicago nurse, who sat in a linen closet with such an infant until he died. Also,He is going to take benefits from seniors and deny treatment.

I think Notre Dame needs to retract the invitation.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Servant, Detroit, MI — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:37:49 GMT

There are many who call themselves Catholic but they are not when they think they know better than the Church and God. They commit the same folly as Adam and Eve. They believe they can pick and chose tenets and doctrines. They will ultimately answer for their actions and their inactions.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

donald iarussi mfa — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:41:00 GMT

obama is a fialure, this man is leading us to a one world non religious socialt nation

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

R Berger — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:41:17 GMT

As a Catholic, it is extremely distressing to have a pro-abortion politician be honored as graduation speaker at a Catholic University. I will never feel the same about the School.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

John DOe, Washington DC — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:41:17 GMT

This is a joke right.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Rudy Rockne, PA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:50:04 GMT

It's good to see Notre Dame putting publicity above Godliness.

As for the students skewing left, as the saying goes: If you're 21 and not a liberal, it means you don't have a heart. If you're 41 and not a conservative, it means you don't have a brain.

Wait until these kids start working 40+ hours a week, start paying their mortages, and begin trying to save money for their kids college funds and then ask them if they like socialism.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jim Stef — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:50:50 GMT

I remind the desenters that some students stood with their back facing President G.H.W. Bush when he gave the commencement so I think you all should return the favor. I would love to see a picture with 40% of the seniors giving him their back!!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

R Altiere, North Kingstown, RI — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:51:48 GMT

The President of Notre Dame feels inviting Obama to speak at the commencement might be a way of engaging the President on the subject of abortion - ridiculous. Barack Obama's feelings about abortion are very clear and no amount of engagement with any Catholic group or institution is going to change that. Barack Obama should not speak at Notre Dame nor should Nancy Pelosi, Joe Biden, John Kerry, any of the Kennedys, etc. etc. This is indeed a bad choice - Catholics everywhere should be upset.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Patrick W. Lappert, MD, Decatur, Alabama — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:55:56 GMT

Your article outlining the relative popularity of Mr. Obama is utterly moronic. Catholic morality is not about popularity. As a Catholic institution, Notre Dame is obligated to the advancement of truth, not the encouragement of highly popular moral degradation.

Mr. Obama is the single biggest proponent of the culture of death that America has ever seen, and he intends that world view for America and for our foreign policy.

The subterfuge of "exposing our students to differing opinions" is simply a way of soft peddling monstrous lies under the erroneously named banner of "liberal" education.

The American episcopate needs to step in and forcefully correct Father Jenkins as a spiritual work of mercy, that being to inform the ignorant, for the sake of his eternal soul.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Mark Fenn — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:56:35 GMT

Good Catholics should support Obama! Enough of the abortion nonsense. What about issues surrounding poverty, race, the environment, and human welfare? Hands down, Obama should be embraced for bringing people together and uniting this country. Good for you, Notre Dame!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

James Son, Oklahoma City, Ok — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:58:21 GMT

Father Jenkins you are ignoring the issues of life!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jack H., Irving, TX — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:59:00 GMT

Catholics, schizoid to the core (and that includes me), love President Obama.

Not all Catholics, but lots and lots of them--and this includes hundreds of bishops!

The key issue is the overall quality of life in terms of fair taxation--especially that.

As a practicing Catholic, I admire Obama's way of using his huge megaphone to "do good."

He wants to help people, and he's very generous with his time, very self-giving--a virtue Catholics appreciate.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Sheila Bohrt — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:59:39 GMT

I know some Good Catholics....not that there's anything wrong with that. But it seems to me the country is changing and the "Old Alumni" of Notre Dame should step aside with their views. Voice them, advise them - yes, but pressure them, NO! They're fortunate to be hearing President Obama speak at their graduation ceremonies.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Michael Bustamante, Jacksonville, Fl. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:59:50 GMT

Maybe he can talk about how he is dismantling Bush's Faith Based Initiative by requiring Catholic and other faith services to hire atheist in order to qualify for funding.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

L Furey, Austin, TX — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:04:44 GMT

DEPLORABLE!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Patrick C., Orange Cty, CA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:06:11 GMT

Obama won Catholics 54%-45% in the 2008 general election? Then it is clear that Catholics favor abortion by a 9% majority. I would remind the 9% of Catholics that voted for Obama that abortion takes an innocent human life. Obama favors death over life, no matter how elegantly he and his teleprompter put it. Father Jenkins had better decide whether he supports life for unborn children, or whether he supports killing them. If he pals around with the likes of Obama, he had better question his motives. There is no middle ground on this issue. "If you sup with the Devil, bring a long spoon."

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Greg, Wichita, KS — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:06:26 GMT

As a Notre Dame parent, I am extremely disappointed in Fr. Jenkins judgment. At an event which should be very important to graduating students and their parents, Fr. Jenkins has managed to upset at least half the families in attendance. There are plenty of faithful Catholics and others who could be given this honor but instead he picks a man who not only opposes Catholic teaching but goes out of his way to insult those who embrace Catholic teaching (case in point - his accusation that those who oppose embryonic stell cell research are somehow ignorant of science).
Shame on you Fr. Jenkins

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Clare Merkle — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:06:43 GMT

I would urge all donors to the University of Notre Dame to stop their support of this institution if it follows through on its plans to invite the most pro-abortion president in history. Notre Dame has long had an endowment that dwarfs Catholic universities loyal to Catholic social and ethical thought. My family members have attended ND, but I will never recommend it again.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

dua33 — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:08:12 GMT

As a catholic I think its time the catholic church at all levels starts to make a voice in not promoting those that fly in the face of the catholic church teachings. I am not a theologian but I'm about at my limit standing by and watching the church not taking a strong stand on the beliefs I was thought and that the church "teaches" then allows to be throwen in our face. Father John Jenkins, president of the Notre Dame University needs to be called to task on his decision on letting any abortion promoter speak at one of our catholic universities.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Thomas J. Cigas, Bethany, CT. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:09:07 GMT

On its website, the University of Notre Dame describes itself as "an idependent, national Catholic university." As a Catholic, I am dismayed Notre Dame would welcome a President who has conssistently supported any and every type of abortion including partial-birth abortion and who refused as a state senator to provide medical care for babies who have survived a botched abortion attempt.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Robert Dorenbusch — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:13:12 GMT

I'm not a Notre Dame graduate, but a 68 year old Catholic. I can't believe a Catholic Priest in charge of THE major Catholic university in this country would embrace a man whose voting record on aborting babies is as O'Bama's. It shows a total disrespect for the Catholic position on abortion and, I feel, a direct affront to the Pope. All of us Catholics are working hard against the liberal policies affecting the well being of babies. This is disgraceful.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Izabela Denver, Co — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:13:54 GMT

well, Bush did not have easy either so ... nothing new, there is always someone that complains. You cannot make everybody happy. That's part of life.
http://share.your.momentshere.com

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

David J Consiglio Altoona, PA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:15:58 GMT

After the action of Notre Dame inviting the President,who is a proponent of the horrible murder of the unborn and recently born (partial birth abortion) which are dirctly against the teaching of the Catholic Church, this once proud University should change it's name as it no longer can be called Our Lady's University. I strongly propose that the invitation be rescinded or do not ever again pretend to be a Roman Catholic University.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

jay qualey — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:18:17 GMT

With all due respect to obama in terms of catholic teaching this is like inviting king herod

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

mike loehrer, dublin, ohio — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:18:18 GMT

I'd say Fr. John Jenkins days at ND are numbered
Big money alumni donors don't much care for
President's who condone murder of the unborn.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

jay qualey — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:18:59 GMT

With all due respect to obama in terms of catholic teaching this is like inviting king herod

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Ben — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:19:10 GMT

I'm a Catholic and it's becoming more and more depressing to see the church turn into a faith that stands for nothing. Every scripture read in mass on Sunday sounds like cheap talk. Does ND think Obama is going there to have his mind changed? Ridiculous.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

jay qualey — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:19:26 GMT

With all due respect to obama in terms of catholic teaching this is like inviting king herod

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Kyle Brandonberry, Seattle,WA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:19:45 GMT

Yes he won them... And then came into office and reistituted the Mexico city policy and expanded federal spending on embryonic stem cells you moron! They have reason to be outraged!!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

J. Alejandro — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:19:53 GMT

Appalling that a man which did not support the right to life of a baby who survived an abortion; or doesn't know when human rights begin; or who, defending abortion, said that if one of his daughters became pregnant out of wedlock, "I wouldn't punish them with a baby"; of sees science without ethics as progress, is in charge of American foreign policy with its Human Rights component, and now is going to address our premier Catholic university.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Maurice F. Curran, Yonkers, N. Y. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:20:07 GMT

This affrontery to the Magisterium of the Church that Notre Dame University is a Catholic institution in name only. If it has amny integrity left afterr this endorsement to the most extreme anti-life President in our history, this sham University should give up the Ghost and declare its secular identity.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

jay qualey — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:20:09 GMT

With all due respect to obama in terms of catholic teaching this is like inviting king herod

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Margaret Blackwelll — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:58:26 GMT

"Yeah, Catholics want to teach us about morality. Religious hypocrasy" (sic)
Only .03 per cent of priests are pedophiles (Jenkins, Priests and Pedophiles. Jenkins is a former Catholic).
While that is .03 per cent too many it, it lower than almost any other profession. The media has been foaming at the mouth over the recent scandals but has largely ignored those, some of even greater magnitude, that occurred in other religions and professions. The old WASPish bigotry is alive and well

Get you facts before you go exposing your anti-Catholic bigotry

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Cora, South Bend, Indiana — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:02:49 GMT

I am a Notre Dame student and I can honestly say that a majority of the student body is very much agaist having Obama, who is everything the Catholic Church condemns, speaking at the graduation of our seniors. This is a crime against the Catholic identity of the greatest university in the world.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Richard Hungerford, Omaha, Nebraska — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:04:21 GMT

Catholics believe abortion is murder for the sake of convenience. Why would you want to honor someone who facilitates this in any way? Would you honor Hitler because he was such a forward thinker in regard to eugenics? Ignoring Obamas actions will hurt the Church as much as ignoring the pedophilia problem did.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Richard LA Schaefer — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:07:05 GMT

Because of his authorization of spending U.S. money to help kill foreign babies, of embryonic stem cell research that includes an early form of clones and leaves open to Congress whether to also create new embryos to be destroyed for research, and threats to force medical personnel to participate in abortion, Obama's popularity among Catholics has been dropping. To buck up his support he is appearing at a university that does not allow gay rights support groups.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

matt j, chicago, il — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:07:28 GMT

The reason this is a big deal to Catholics (and should be to all) is simply we cannot accept the president (or the law) condoning killing over 40 million babies. No one would want a neo-nazi to speak at a Catholic school if he held the belief that killing Jews was ok ((pro abortionist believe unborn babies are less than human just like neo-nazi's believe jews and blacks etc are less than human).
Some say other things are important too. And they are right (helping the poor, protecting the weak, avoiding war, etc. Consider this, how may social programs do we need to justify the murder of 1 baby - let alone 40,000,000+? And remember that number grows by 1,000,000+ each year - and this is only in the USA! Besides, it is individuals and charitable groups that should be helping the poor not the government forcing people (but that's another subject).

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Len, Grapevine, TX — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:07:45 GMT

Wrong. Obama isn't simply pro-abortion, he's pro-infanticide given his repeated pro votes in IL for allowing a LIVING, BREATHING, FUNCTIONING, FULL TERM BABY to be abandoned on a table to die and be thrown out in the trash - as has verifiably happened - if the mother's original intent was abortion. Hitler would be green with envy at what American liberals are capable of doing and without the slightest remourse.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Suzanne, Carlisle PA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:10:53 GMT

In order to be considered a Catholic university and maintain a Catholic identity, ND should not honor Barrack with an invitation for the commencement, or give an honorary degree. Obama stands in complete opposition to the Church's position on Life and other social issues.As is well known, Obama even advocates infanticide when a child is born alive as a result of a "failed" abortion. If Obama wanted to come to Notre Dame to debate these issues, providing him a forum with the appropriate opposing pro-life apologia wouldn't be a problem. This is not about free speech. This about systematically breaking down the Church's moral authority on objective Truth. Jenkins absolutely knows what he is doing. Like the serpent of old, he is telling the Church that he "will not serve." Notre Dame, like Marist College before it, must have it's Catholic standing revoked-
let it become the secular institution it aspires to be- then it can degrade itself as much as it wants to.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Chris Manion ND '68 — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:13:32 GMT

Man, I knew MSNBC pandered to liberals, but the anti-Catholic bigotry in all too many of these comments is despicable.

The Lefties are probably upset that the Cardinals elected a Catholic to the papacy, when there were so many fine atheists they could have considered.

Sure, they'd like the left to run Notre Dame unopposed, so they can purge all those believing "fanatics" from the student body. Well, there are three thousand other colleges that their atheist kids can attend with pleasure -- hooking up, free Depro-Provera, the whole nine yards. Why can't Notre Dame stand for something different?

In one respect, Notre Dame, is in a bind. It gets millions from the federal government every year, and it has to genuflect towards Washington all too often in return. But (brace yourselves, bigots) Our Lady (English for the original French, *Notre Dame* - the college was founded by an order of French priests) -- Our Lady still watches over us and prays for helpless innocents, including the unborn.

For some reason, Obama has declared war on the unborn. Let's see if he's willing to discuss that during his visit.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

ed, rochester, ny — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:13:55 GMT

This is a very simple matter: Will Notre Dame, a purportedly Catholic Institution, yield to the authority of the United States Catholic Bishops, who in 2004 taught that Catholic Universities may not give platform to politicians whose views are so opposed to the moral teaching of the Church? Thus far, Father Jenkins has placed himself above the teachings of the Church.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Daniel — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:15:21 GMT

Jesus forgave sin. He didnt "tolerate" it. He said, "Go, and sin no more." "Not, its okay, I am for whatever you are for." NO! This country suffers from fetus fatigue and is callous to the subject of abortion.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Ben Yorn — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:16:57 GMT

It always amazes me how democrats view republicans as sleasy people with comments like "It is part of their bag of dirty tricks." Many republicans honestly feel that the sanctity of life should be preserved. This isn't a dirty trick but a position on what we feel is best for a society as a whole for many reasons. Most Republicans are aligned with many libertarians in their belief that government is the cause of many problems. Historically, socialistic and communistic societies that have a large governmental structure to control society are less productive and poorer as a whole than free capitalistic societies. This doesn't match the academic models that promote "fairness" accross the spectrum of society but there is a big gap between academics and reality.

I guess what I'm saying is it would be nice to have debates over what is best for America without either side participating in childish verbal attacks and broad brush labeling of ideas.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

linda, montana — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:17:04 GMT

As the parent of an ND alumni, I strongly disagree with ND inviting the President to speak at this years commencement. Parents send their children to Catholic schools to receive a top education but also to partner with them in providing a solid Catholic education. ND has sorely lacked a solid Catholic identity for 20 years. I believe Catholics associated with the university - students, alumni or parents, have the right to voice their opinions to the university on this selection. Other Catholics also have a voice to speak, since this clearly shows the divide we have in America of the Catholic Church. One side is traditional and seeks to follow the Church and the magisterium and the other is Catholic only when it's convenient, and chooses to align itself with secular society.

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jose Antommarchi, Reynoldsburg, OH — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:18:35 GMT

GOOD FOR THOSE DECENT PEOPLE AT NOTRE DAME!

The fact that one of the first items on Obama's agenda upon taking office was to invove his administration in the flagrant violation of the basic human rights of the most helpless and vulnerable among us speaks volumes about the phoniness of his "compassion".

And with "We the People's" money!

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Al Spizzo, Conover, NC — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:21:01 GMT

Obama favors partial birth abortion. In Illinois, as a state Congressman,he voted for murdering a child after he/she was extracted from the womb. He spent twenty years in a church that preached hate of whites and this nation. Maybe Notre Dame could have the head of the Klu Klux Klan speak next year?

Obama faces Notre Dame backlash

Jerry Charboneau Cheboygan, MI — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:48:11 GMT

The greate4st University in the world,a Catholoic University, has invited President Obama to speak at commencement? Totaly ludicrous! Even though he is president of our once great country, I cannot believe that a man who is an avowed pro-abortionist would be asked to speak.He is not worthy to address the Notre Dame grads. Come on, we are a Catholic University.