Tom Barrett received communion at Abp Listecki installation

On January 4th, a new era began as Bishop Jerome Listecki was installed as Milwaukee's next Archbishop. The installation was a tightly restricted invitation-only ceremony reserved for influential Catholics and some political dignitaries like gubernatorial candidates Scott Walker and Tom Barrett. It did not appear, however, that Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Neumann received an invitation to attend the ceremony. This would not be surprising since he has quickly become forgettable.

During the ceremony, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett partook in the communion - a ritual of substantial importance for Catholics that signifies spiritual devotion to Christ. This occurs at a time when Catholic Bishops have taken an increasing role in denying pro-choice politicians the rite of communion. Why is this relevant? In the late 90s when Tom Barrett was a Wisconsin Congressman, he voted against a proposed ban on partial birth abortion; and he did this not just once, but twice. His vote opposed a bill that, if passed, would have protected unborn children from a cruel and unusual form of medical execution.

 continue at The Hispanic Conservative

Abp. Listecki cannot be blamed for this incident as he would have no knowledge of the landscape prior to his arrival.  What is clear is that the Catholic country club has been open in Milwaukee for some time.  The public has not been informed as to the status of someone as merciless as Tom Barrett.  Since he is receiving Communion, is it in defiance of his bishop or because he has never been corrected?  It would be interesting if a reporter asked Barrett if he has ever had anyone from the archdiocese meet with him to discuss the matter. 

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