Milwaukee Archbishop Grob issues public apology

Archbishop Jeffrey Grob of Milwaukee issued a public apology on Oct. 25 regarding his participation in a meeting at the White House on Oct. 22. Grob expressed regret for his role in what he described as a political photo opportunity orchestrated by the administration.

The archbishop stated that he and 11 other bishops attended the meeting under the impression it would be a private discussion. According to Grob, the gathering was organized by the Heritage Foundation to discuss topics such as immigration enforcement, religious worker visas, and human dignity. He noted that participants were told the meeting would be private and might include Catholic cabinet members or an opportunity for private prayer with President Donald Trump.

Grob said the White House publicized the meeting without the consent of the participants. He clarified that the meeting did not constitute an endorsement of the president, his policies, or his political party. He issued the statement to address questions and comments from the people in his care and to provide context for the event.