Full Breakdown
Catholic Bishops’ White House Prayer Meeting Sparks Apology and Debate
By Drooid · · How we work
The Oval Office Prayer Session
On October 22, twelve Catholic bishops led by Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob met with White House staff and policy advisers before being ushered into the Oval Office, where they stood behind President Donald Trump and prayed. A short video and several photographs were posted online shortly afterward, drawing immediate public attention because it occurred less than two weeks before the midterm elections.
Background and Context
The invitation promised a private setting, the possible presence of Catholic cabinet members, and an opportunity to pray privately with the president. The meeting lasted about ninety minutes before the bishops were directed to the Oval Office for the prayer.
Official Statements & Responses
Archbishop Grob issued a public apology later in October, saying his intention was never to cause confusion, anger or disappointment among the faithful. He noted that the bishops had not given permission for the video or photos to be distributed and emphasized that the meeting was meant as a pastoral act of praying for the nation, regardless of political differences.
Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines described the White House’s use of the footage as “exploited” and said he wished he had been more shrewd in accepting the invitation, acknowledging the timing on the “cusp of a national election.”
The White House spokesperson did not address the bishops’ concerns about consent for the video and photographs.
Criticism & Opposition
The Sisters of Charity of New York, a national religious-women’s organization, criticized the public display, arguing that the image “carries messages” that obscure the Church’s broader Gospel concerns for the poor, immigrants and the marginalized. The group called for greater moral witness beyond photographs with political leaders.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Bishops assert that the video and photos were posted without their consent, while the White House has not directly responded to that claim. The administration’s spokesperson focused on praising the president rather than confirming whether permission was sought, leaving a factual gap regarding the bishops’ alleged lack of consent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I soon began receiving messages of serious concern over the possibility that I had inadvertently participated in a political event less than two weeks before a national election,” — Archbishop Jeffrey Grob
- “We came in good faith to try to work for the betterment of our fellow human beings, to ease their suffering, to build up the common good, and to pray with a president, not to pose for a political photo opportunity to benefit the few,” — Archbishop Jeffrey Grob
- “The bishops of the United States teach that the Church cannot champion any candidate or party,” — Denver Archbishop James Golka
- “I understand that many people saw the video, posted by the Administration twelve days before an election, as an endorsement. That was never my intention,” — Denver Archbishop James Golka
These statements capture the bishops’ regret, their intent to act in good faith, and the view that the meeting was not a political endorsement.
The episode underscores the delicate balance Catholic leaders navigate when engaging with political authorities during an election season and has prompted ongoing discussion within the Church about the appropriate role of clergy in public political contexts.