Obama holds round table with religion writers
By Patricia Zapor
Catholic News Service
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- President Barack Obama told a morning round table with religion writers July 2 that he was profoundly influenced by the late Cardinal Joseph Bernardin of Chicago when he worked in community organizing there in a project partially funded by the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.
Obama said his encounters with the cardinal continue to influence his approach to social issues that are important to the church.
He also told reporters to expect a conscience clause protection for health care workers that will be no less protective than what existed previously.
The round table was held in anticipation of Obama's audience with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican July 10.
MORE TO COME
07/02/2009 11:58 AM ET
Copyright (c) 2009 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
