Giuliani honored by Catholic hospital

A few days ago, Rob raised the question whether some pro-life Catholics apply a double standard to politicians, by coming down harder on pro-abortion-rights Democrats than on Republicans with the same views. The New York Times recently ran this article, describing the controversy over a plan to name a new trauma center at St. Vincent's Hospital in Manhattan after Rudy Giuliani (who not only supports abortion rights, but also public funding for abortion). The article quotes the following language from the bishops' recent statement, "Catholics in Political Life":

"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."

Apparently, "a spokesman for the bishops conference, David Early, declined to comment on whether the naming of the St. Vincent's center violated the bishops' policy, but he said they were aiming mainly at Catholic campuses in the document." This prompted a response from Fr. Reese, of America magazine:

"They can name a hospital wing after him, but he can't give a commencement address or get an honorary degrees?" he said. "This makes perfect sense!"

Father Reese said the naming of the wing "raises serious questions about the consistency of the bishops' policy."

Rick