On January 13, 2004, I was asked by Sr. M. Elise Kriss, OSF, if I would accept an honorary degree from the University of Saint Francis at the 2004 Commencement. I accepted with pleasure, and told her that I would be honored.
Later I was informed that Dr. Nancy Snyderman who was scheduled to be the Commencement speaker, had positions on unborn life that I as a Catholic bishop found unacceptable. On Easter Sunday after celebrating the Televised Mass at the University of Saint Francis Chapel, I told Sister Elise that I would, reluctantly, have to decline the honorary degree. I said however, I would, gladly accept the degree the following year. I specifically said that I did not expect her to withdraw any honor from Dr. Synderman, but simply said that I could not be present. Sr. Elise seemed to understand. There was no conversation about the fact that Dr. Snyderman would give the graduate address and no request or even a suggestion that she not speak to the graduates. I understand and respect academic freedom.
Later I shared with Sr. Elise the material which I received concerning Dr. Snyderman's position so she would know the reason for my decision. I also shared this material with the superiors of her religious congregation, as was my obligation. At no time did I ever suggest or request that Dr. Synderman should not speak or should not receive an honorary degree if the University of Saint Francis should wish to bestow one upon her.
Why did I choose to decline the honorary degree? A bishop is bound to preach the truth, not only in words, but also by his actions. The Church's position on unborn life is well known, and the Churc's position is my position. It is my obligation to all the faithful and especially to the young graduates to make sure there is no confusion on this matter. I made the same decision, not to attend the graduation, in 1992 when Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan was awarded the Laetare Medal at the University of Notre Dame. In neither case, did I request that the invitation be withdrawn. As I said then and repeat now, I am simply following my solemn responsibilities as a pastor to avoid any confusion on truths so essential to the life of the Church and society, and always to make clear, in season and out of season, those eternal values for which the Church has always stood and for which she stands today.
I will do my best to talk to Dr. Snyderman.
I was informed on April 27, 2004, that the request to Dr. Snyderman had been withdrawn, and I was asked if I would accept an honorary degree this year and speak at the commencement. I hold the University of Saint Francis and Sr. Elise Kriss in high regard and with great affection. Since my presence at the graduation itself might be seen as divisive or distracting on a day so beautiful for the graduates, I have decided not to accept an honorary degree this year and not to be present at the graduation. However, it will be my privilege to celebrate the Eucharist with the graduates earlier that day at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, as I do every year.
