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You have synopsized the focus of Archbishop Burke's remarks.....remarks that the recipients thereof seek to distort to suit their own agenda. Well done!

If a running back for the Packers expressed displeasure with a play called by Favre and said he refused to run it, I suspect if his "personal conviction" could not be changed by Brett, the offensive coordinator, head coach/general manager or the owner, the back would be cleaning out his personal possessions from the Green Bay locker room forthwith.

He can still play professional football (although I think coaches would look at him with a wary eye), but he cannot claim to be a Green Bay Packer if he does not ascribe to the dictates of that organization, i.e.: the contents of the playbook.

Archbishop Burke who, it saddens me to say is leaving my daughter's diocese, is NOT telling any legislator how to vote...contrary to those who would love to disseminate that falsehood. He states the obvious. You cannot act consistantly and without remorse in a manner contrary to the tenets of a faith you profess to espouse and expect to be considered a devout member of that religious organization.

The argument may be presented that we all sin, which is true, however, it is requisite of the penitent to not only seek forgiveness via the Sacrament of Reconciliation, but most importantly, a condition of the absolution of his/her sins is the heartfelt promise to God to do their best to "avoid sin or the near occasion of sin". A legislator who fully intends to speak in favor of and vote for the abominable practice of legalized infanticide has turned his/her back on the Catholic faith, and in fact, violates the tenets of many orthodox religions.

I believe Archbishop Burke is simply seeking first and foremost that those involved experience an epiphany and recognize the sanctity of all life, but until that occurs, cease the hypocrisy of claiming to espouse the Catholic faith while violating its basic tenet. The message is clear....you cannot be a Catholic in good standing and be pro-abortion.

There is further that the Catholic argument against abortion is based on "natural Law "as well as faith. Every American legislator is bound by that same law. Of course, most reject that approach including many liberal Catholics. Cuomo's famous speech at Notre Dame is founded on a rejection of natural law.

If a running back for the Packers expressed displeasure with a play called by Favre ...

Point well made. Mind if I use it and insert Eagles, and McNabb in the place of the two soon-to-be-vacationers that you used? vbg :-)