Expert: Tom Schott - 3/19/2010

Question
What is the Church's stance on ex-communication of lawmakers who support and vote for abortion?  What can we do if one of our representatives supports it, is Catholic and we object?  Can they be reported anywhere?

Thank you and God bless.

Answer
Hi Mary,

The Church speaks most frequently through its bishops, so it is their decision how to handle the case of Catholic politicians in their own dioceses. Very few, to my knowledge, formally excommunicate such politicians, although it is sometimes done. If you have complaints about your representatives, you can write, email, or call your local chancery.