Cupich: Politicians' Language 'Demeans Immigrants'
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Archbishop Blaise Cupich didn't mention Donald Trump by name, but he had some pointed words of criticism for politicians who use hateful language that Cupich says "demeans immigrants."
Archbishop Cupich said Monday that he sometimes sees hateful language about immigration in political discourse.
"This language fosters a mentality that reduces desperate men, women and children to a soundbite--designed to pander to our lower nature.
"It's unworthy of this blessed country, a land of immigrants."
Asked later if he was talking about Trump, who has called Mexican immigrants rapists and wants to build a wall along the border, Cupich said it's not just one individual.
The archbishop made his comments at a news conference where he focused on the Pope's trip to the U.S. next week.
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Cupich said the pope's easing of rules for annulment and his absolution for women who've had abortions reflect the Holy Father's focus on forgiveness and mercy.
"What we're seeing with this Holy Father is an approach that really does put people and their circumstances of life first."
When bishops gather for a synod on the family, there may be discussion of married priests but Cupich defended priestly celibacy.
"There's something very special about having an individual giving up their own family and living a life of celibacy for the service of the church."
Cupich was asked, if the church may someday embrace gay marriage.
"The church views marriage between men and women, not just as a civil ceremony, it's a sacrament."
Archbishop Cupich modestly called himself a bit player in the Pope's U.S. visit, because the pope isn't coming to Chicago.
Cupich doesn't expect to have any private time with the pontiff during his trip to Washington, D.C.--the first stop on the pope's tour--and will not be on hand for the pope's visit to Philadelphia or New York.
