Fidelis Levels Criticism Over Religion Question

From Fidelis.org:

WASHINGTON - In separate letters to Senators Arlen Specter and Diane Feinstein, Fidelis leveled criticism over the repeated questioning of Judge Roberts' Catholic faith. The letters address Chairman Specter's early question about Roberts' "personal views" which set the stage for Senator Feinstein to unnecessarily revisit the sensitive topic later in the hearing.

The letters ask for a more respectful tone during the second day of questioning and request that Senator Feinstein refrain from such further questioning and apologize for her intolerant and offensive words.

In their letter sent early Wednesday to Senator Arlen Specter, Fidelis expressed concern that Specter's question opened the door for further inquiry about Roberts' faith. Fidelis called on him to apologize and appealed to him to preserve the integrity of the process and not allow unnecessary questioning of his religion to continue.

The Feinstein letter expressed Fidelis' deep concern over describing the teachings of the Catholic Church as "dictates," revisiting the topic of then presidential candidate John F. Kennedy who was repeatedly dogged by questions concerning the perceived conflict between his Catholic faith and his role as a public servant.

Fidelis President Joseph Cella commented, "Of the two Senators' remarks, Senator Feinstein's were the most disturbing because she referred to the Catholic faith as 'dictates.' It shows her callous insensitivity and ignorance of the teachings of the Catholic faith." ...

Click here for the full story, as well as the full text of the letters sent to Senators Specter and Feinstein.