Cardinal Dolan on Pope Francis’ Health and Catholic School Closures in New York
Pope Francis’ Health
Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York City expressed concern about the health of Pope Francis, who is currently battling double pneumonia.
"It’s not looking good," Dolan said on Fox & Friends Weekend. "When you get double pneumonia in anybody, you’re worried. When you got double pneumonia in an 88 year-old-man, who has only got 75 percent of his lung capacity and is struggling with arthritis and a bunch of stuff, it’s not looking good."
Dolan praised Pope Francis’ resilience and determination, but acknowledged the need for realism. "I’m praying with him," he said. "But I’m praying for him. But I think we have to be realistic as he certainly is."
Catholic School Closures in New York City
Dolan also addressed the closure of Catholic schools in New York City, which he described as "a tragedy."
"I literally tear up when we have to close them," Dolan said. "We just had to go through some of that again. And it literally breaks our hearts."
Dolan attributed the closures to declining parent interest and funding issues. He emphasized the importance of quality education and a focus on faith in Catholic schools.
"Both of those are essential," he said.
Dolan encouraged parents to consider the value of a Catholic education, even at a premium price. "Those are the schools that are thriving," he said.
Concerns from Pastors
Dolan relayed concerns from pastors in New York City who lead struggling Catholic schools. They questioned whether their schools were sufficiently emphasizing faith and Christian values.
"If not, why do we have them?" Dolan said.
Successful Catholic Schools
Dolan contrasted the struggling schools with those that are thriving.
"We got schools elsewhere that are jam-packed," Dolan said. "We got schools that are thriving. And that’s what hurts us, I think. It hurts me. I love talking about our Catholic schools. I love them. I’m passionate about them. They’re still strong and the future’s looking bright for a number of reasons."
Criticism of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Dolan has been involved in a public dispute with Vice President J.D. Vance over the issue of illegal immigration. Vance accused the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops of profiting from illegal immigration.
"I think that the US Conference of Catholic Bishops needs to actually look in the mirror a little bit and recognize that when they receive over $100 million to help resettle illegal immigrants, are they worried about humanitarian concerns or are they actually worried about their bottom line?" Vance said.
Dolan rejected this claim, asserting that the Church is losing money on its efforts to help immigrants.
"You think we make money caring for the immigrants?" Dolan said. "We’re losing it hand over fist."
