The Most Reverend Fabian W. Bruskewitz

There is someone new on my non-existent, yet very real, list of favorite Bishops. The Most Reverend Fabian W. Bruskewitz of the Lincoln Diocese entered my prayers as of last Friday. His Excellency was on The World Over that evening to discuss the controversy over the distribution of communion to politicians who publicly/politically oppose the Church's teachings on abortion.

In a straightforward unapologetic manner Bishop Bruskewitz stated that there is no way that individuals such as Rudy Guilani, Ted Kennedy, John Kerry or Nancy Pelosi should be given communion. He didn't say that there were steps toward denial of the most blessed sacrament, nor that it is an individual home diocese issue. Playing the blame game post unworthy reception of the Eucharist doesn't seem possible when it comes to Bruskewitz. Furthermore, this Bishop stated that he feels that, when it comes to public figures who so egregiously publicly commit mortal sins, if they do turn away from such sin they should publicly let it be known that they are have placed themselves in line with Church teaching. He directly, and relevantly, quoted the then Cardinal Ratzinger's 2004 letter to the Bishops on this issue without feeling it necessary to manipulate the words.

Pretty bold stuff. Especially when you look at the back pedalling of some Church officials.

A quick check of the internet proves that Bishop Bruskewitz is more than a man of words. He has previously excommunicated individuals gravely in conflict with the Church. Which, in reality, their actions/stands excommunicated them, but he cared enough for the faithful to make the public declaration.

I thank God for the fine Prince of the Church Bishop Fabian W. Bruskewitz.