Reply to DC Episcopal Bishop Decries Trump Photo-op in Front of St. John's

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[quote=Anonymous]Looks like the Catholic Archbishop wasn't any happier about Trump's visit to a shrine today.

[quote]President Trump triggered sharp condemnation from top religious leaders for the second time in two days on Tuesday, with Washington Archbishop Wilton Gregory slamming his visit to a D.C. shrine honoring Pope John Paul II.
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“I find it baffling and reprehensible that any Catholic facility would allow itself to be so egregiously misused and manipulated in a fashion that violates our religious principles, which call us to defend the rights of all people, even those with whom we might disagree,” Gregory said in a statement as Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrived at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Northeast Washington.

The shrine was opened as a museum to John Paul in 2001, but nose-dived financially and was bailed out in 2011 by the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men’s religious organization that has lobbied for conservative political causes, such as opposing same-sex marriage.

In his statement, Gregory noted the legacy of Pope John Paul II, suggesting he would not have condoned Trump’s actions, including his walk to St. John’s as hundreds of demonstrators were protesting the death of George Floyd last week in the custody of the Minneapolis police.

“Saint Pope John Paul II was an ardent defender of the rights and dignity of human beings. His legacy bears vivid witness to that truth," Gregory said. "He certainly would not condone the use of tear gas and other deterrents to silence, scatter or intimidate them for a photo opportunity in front of a place of worship and peace.”

Trump’s brief visit to the shrine appeared to serve primarily as another photo opportunity. John Paul II is especially remembered fondly by conservative Catholics for his strong anti-Communist and anti-abortion rights stances.

The president and the first lady, who identifies as Roman Catholic, stood to face the media for photos before facing the statue of John Paul II for a few minutes. Then they looked at a wreath of red and white roses that held a card saying “Mr. President.” The president did not make any remarks before walking back into the shrine. Near the shrine, several protesters read Gregory’s statement aloud during Trump’s visit.
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2020/06/02/trump-catholic-shrine-church-bible-protesters/[/quote]

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