Catholic Bishops Criticize White House for ‘Exploiting’ Prayer Meeting with President Trump

Two Catholic bishops have raised concerns about the White House’s use of a meeting and prayer session with President Donald Trump, claiming it was “exploited” less than two weeks before the midterm elections. Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob and Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines, Iowa, expressed their discontent after the White House distributed a photo showcasing them praying with the President during a recent meeting.

The invitation extended by the White House in September offered discussion on issues like immigration enforcement, religious worker visas, abortion, and the use of federal tax credits for private education, according to statements from Joensen and Grob.

In his statement, Joensen mentioned, “I wish I had been more shrewd and less simple, like those who exploited our meeting for partisan political purpose. I pray I am more prudent and wise going forward, even as I remain resolute in my openness to engaging and praying for political leaders at all levels.”

Grob, in a statement titled “A Public Apology,” expressed feeling a deep sadness due to the situation. He highlighted that the photo and video were shared by the White House without the participants’ consent. “I feel a heavy sadness, not only over the pain I caused, but also for the fact that something so sacred to a group of religious leaders, prayer to our Heavenly Father, would be manipulated in that way,” Grob said.

The Associated Press reported that when asked about the consent for releasing the photos and videos, the White House press office did not provide an answer. Instead, spokeswoman Taylor Rogers stated, “There has never been a greater president for Catholic Americans than President Trump, and his strong record proves it.”

Newsweek has reached out to the White House via email, seeking comment outside regular working hours. This is a developing story and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The article incorporates input from The Associated Press.