Archbishop calls prayer moment 'manipulated'; White House defends Trump ahead of midterms
Prayer Images Prompt Apology
Grob released a statement Sunday titled “A Public Apology” about the prayer held Thursday in the Oval Office. He said the White House shared images and video without the consent of the 12 bishops who took part.
The Milwaukee archbishop said Catholics had contacted him with concerns that the gathering could look like political support. He acknowledged he had reservations about attending and apologized for the distress caused by his participation.
Grob Criticizes Political Use
The prayer brought Trump together with Catholic bishops and archbishops inside the Oval Office. The event took place less than two weeks before the midterm elections.
White House Defends Trump
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers responded to Grob’s apology in a statement to Fox News Digital. She defended Trump’s record on religious liberty and Catholic priorities. The disagreement centers on the public release of images from the prayer and how the gathering could be understood politically. Grob’s apology followed concerns from Catholics about the appearance of an endorsement.
Key points
- Grob said images and video of the Oval Office prayer were shared without the participating bishops’ consent.
- The Milwaukee archbishop apologized for distress caused by his attendance.
- Catholics contacted Grob with concerns that the prayer could appear to endorse Trump.
- White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers defended Trump’s record on religious liberty and Catholic priorities.