Catholic bishops’ White House prayer draws apologies and criticism amid election season
On Oct. 22, a group of Catholic hierarchs, including Archbishop Jeffrey Grob of Milwaukee and Archbishop James Golka of Denver, gathered in the Oval Office for a prayer session with President Trump. The meeting was recorded and later shared by a White House official, prompting public statements from the bishops. Archbishop Grob issued an apology after the release, and other bishops said the images were shared without their consent.
The episode has been described as a political stunt by some observers, given its timing before the midterm elections. In a separate action, President Trump signed legislation allowing Catholic clergy to re‑enter Social Security and Medicare.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 4h later
Why it matters
It highlights how religious gatherings can become flashpoints in political campaigns and how policy changes affecting clergy are being advanced.
How this story developed
- Oct 25 Catholic bishops lament White House photo of prayer with Donald Trump
- Oct 27 President Trump signed a bill permitting Catholic clergy to re‑enter Social Security and Medicare.
