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Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, outspoken culture warrior and author of the book Render Unto Caesar, has been appointed to succeed the embattled Justin Cardinal Rigali as the archbishop of Philadelphia. Chaput is perhaps best known for his public admonishment of pro-choice politicians.

Let me say first that I admire the Archbishop’s dedication to our faith. From his book: “To survive, American democracy depends on people of character fighting for their beliefs in the public square—legally, ethically, and nonviolently, but forcefully and without apology. Anything less is a form of theft from the nation’s health.”  Chaput is an ardent promoter of Catholic doctrine, and a man whose loyalty to truth is unmatched.

What I don’t condone, however, is the use of the Eucharist as a weapon in the culture wars. In 2004, he told presidential candidate John Kerry that he should not present himself for communion in his diocese. In 2008, he did the same thing to vice-presidential candidate Joe Biden. (This was particularly interesting, as the Democratic convention was held in Chaput’s diocese). Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17). Even if we grant Chaput’s position that pro-choice politicians are sinners (I still find this to be somewhat of a stretch), doesn’t it stand to reason that they, more than anybody, are in desperate need of the Eucharist?

I fear that this appointment will only give a larger pulpit to Chaput in a diocese that is in desperate need of healing. Michael Sean Winters, in his blog over at the National Catholic Reporter, says, “The people of Philadelphia need someone who could provide balm and they are getting someone who throws bombs.”