House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is barred from receiving Holy Communion in San Francisco for her support of access to abortion.

It is unfortunate that some church leaders are ignoring Pope Francis’s admonition to the Catholic clergy to avoid actions that might be construed as politically weaponizing church sacraments, especially Holy Communion.

Recall that as recently as Oct. 21, 2021, Pope Francis told President Biden to “keep receiving Communion” during their audience, even though President Biden’s support of access to abortion and same sex marriage (similar to Pelosi’s) are well known.

Based on the speed with which certain organizations (news and political) have been quick to use the recent decree to bludgeon Pelosi’s character, I believe that Pope Francis’ call to American bishops to avoid actions that be construed as politically weaponizing church sacraments is spot on.

Paul Bunn

Wilsonville