The Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles has publicly expressed disapproval of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ decision to re-invite the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to receive a “Community Heroes” award during the June 16 Pride Night game. This hate group has been criticized for its explicit mockery of the Catholic faith. The Archdiocese voiced its concern in a statement released on Tuesday, expressing its disappointment, anger, and dismay at the Dodgers’ decision.
“The decision to honor a group that clearly mocks the Catholic faith and makes light of the sincere and holy vocations of our women religious who are an integral part of our Church is what has caused disappointment, concern, anger, and dismay from our Catholic community,” the Archdiocese wrote in its statement, according to Fox News. “The Archdiocese stands against any actions that would disparage and diminish our Christian faith and those who dedicate their lives to Christ. Let us also show our care and respect for our women religious by sending a message of support to their communities through phone calls, letters, and posts on their social channels, supporting vocations by donating to their orders, and/or making donations in their name to the programs they support.”
Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone also joined in the criticism, suggesting that the Dodgers were “worshiping” alternative “gods” by backing the hate group. “So, we now know what gods the Dodger admin worships. Open desecration & anti-Catholicism is not disqualifying,” Cordileone said, adding, “Disappointing but not surprising. Gird your loins.”
The statement from the Archdiocese and Archbishop Cordileone comes after nearly a week of controversy. The Dodgers initially invited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to be honored at a game. After receiving complaints from the Christian community, the team disinvited the group, only to re-invite them when pressure from the radical, left-wing gay lobby intensified.