Catholic Bishops Regret Oval Office Prayer With Donald Trump

Archbishop Jeffrey Grob of Milwaukee and Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines issued statements of regret after the White House released social media videos and photos of them praying with Donald Trump in the Oval Office. The bishops accused the administration of exploiting a private session as a campaign photo opportunity before the November 3 midterm elections.

Archbishop Grob stated that the Heritage Foundation arranged the meeting and that the bishops were not informed a video was being recorded or would be released. While the group discussed human dignity, immigration, and religious-worker visas, Bishop Joensen noted that several administration policies are blatantly at odds with the Catholic faith.

Other participants, including Archbishop James Golka, denied intending to endorse any candidate. Meanwhile, Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, urged Catholics to prioritize their faith over politics before the upcoming vote.