Sen. Joseph Cervantes

From the Office of Sen. Joseph Cervantes:

SANTA FE – Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Las Cruces) today issued the following statement after being denied Holy Communion by the Catholic Bishop in Las Cruces:

“For the last 50 years I have actively participated in my parish church and the Las Cruces Catholic Diocese, including at times as its attorney, and for 20 of those years while also serving in elected political service.

Since voting to eliminate an unconstitutional and never used New Mexico law, which would imprison women for abortion, some new clergy have decided I am unwelcome at their communion.

While I ordinarily prefer to practice my faith privately with my family, I felt it necessary to address those who would politicize, and thereby belittle, the promises of the Eucharist.

In making a public statement I in no way intended to judge or provoke more hate. My vote was not to advocate abortion, but to reject the imprisonment of women as a solution to anything.

I wanted to encourage values based on inclusivity, understanding, forgiveness and compassion, which are the core of Christ’s teachings.

Jesus set the table for our communion, and shared bread and wine with all of his disciples without passing judgment on their fitness. I appreciate those in the clergy of my church who closely follow Christ’s example, and who do not belittle the Eucharist in politics.”