Bishop Thomas Olmsted of Phoenix has responded to an article in the Arizona Republic and said that it misrepresented his position on CINO politicians receiving Communion. I am happy to say I was wrong. While he does say that “no one who is conscious of having committed a serious sin should receive Holy Communion,” He doesn’t exactly say that he would deny the Eucharist to manifestly obstinate and persistent public sinners, although he hints at it.
I call upon all Catholics, especially those in public life, to examine their consciences, and to refrain from receiving Holy Communion if they are unambiguously pro-abortion. ... Should some Catholic politicians who are presently pro-abortion obstinately persist in this contradiction to our faith, this becomes a source of scandal and measures beyond those of moral persuasion would be needed. [emphasis added]
He seems to be saying that he would take further steps if they don’t abide by the rule. That’s good. I’m troubled though. What does he mean by “unambiguously” pro-abortion? Does he mean that if you are ambiguously pro-abortion you can continue to receive? I don’t think he would mean that, but he should have been clearer on that point.
