Harrison Butker Criticizes Cardinal for Not Mentioning Jesus

Harrison Butker, the Super Bowl champion kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, has publicly criticized Chicago Cardinal Archbishop Blasé Cupich for his invocation at the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Butker, a devout Catholic, expressed his disappointment that Cupich did not mention Jesus by name during his remarks and noted the absence of the archbishop's pectoral cross, emphasizing the need for religious leaders to boldly proclaim their faith. "America needs more Jesus not less," Butker stated, urging bishops to lead fearlessly. The kicker's comments resonated with Bishop Emeritus Joseph Strickland of Tyler, Texas, who praised Butker for holding Cupich accountable. Strickland expressed hope that Butker's stance would inspire other church leaders to speak the truth of Christ rather than compromise their beliefs for the sake of political correctness. This exchange highlights a growing tension within the Catholic Church regarding the role of clergy in political discourse. Cupich, known as an ally of Pope Francis, faced scrutiny not only for his invocation but also for his failure to address the Democratic Party's stance on abortion. Critics noted that his speech was filled with vague references to human dignity while neglecting to confront the significant moral issues associated with the convention, including the presence of Planned Parenthood mobile clinics nearby. In summary, Butker's remarks reflect a broader call for religious leaders to take a more assertive stance on issues of faith and morality, particularly in the context of political events that challenge core Christian values.