The decision by the Archdiocese of Chicago to grant Senator Dick Durbin a lifetime achievement award at its Keep Hope Alive fundraiser has sparked controversy within the Catholic community. Bishop Thomas Paprocki denounced the move as “gravely mistaken,” pointing to Durbin’s long record of supporting abortion rights. Cardinal Blase Cupich defended the recognition, citing Durbin’s work on immigration, poverty, and peace, and arguing that Catholic teaching on human dignity cannot be reduced to a single issue.
Robert Royal, editor-in-chief of The Catholic Thing and featured speaker at the Aid for Women benefit dinner in Chicago, joined Chicago’s Morning Answer to weigh in. Royal argued that the Archdiocese’s decision contradicts its own 2004 policy that politicians supporting abortion should not be honored. He called the award a political calculation that undermines the Church’s moral teaching, comparing the logic behind it to condoning other grave wrongs if offset by good works in unrelated areas.
Royal also warned that honoring Durbin sends a confusing signal about the Church’s stance on abortion and other issues such as gender ideology and illegal immigration. He noted that while Catholics universally support immigration, the distinction between legal and illegal entry cannot be ignored. According to Royal, elevating Durbin despite his record risks politicizing the Church and alienating the faithful who expect consistency with Catholic doctrine.
Looking ahead, Royal expressed cautious optimism about Pope Leo’s papacy, noting the pontiff’s insistence that the pope must be a preacher rather than a politician. He suggested that the future strength of the Church will lie with Catholics and parishes committed to upholding the catechism without compromise.