Washington — Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi finds herself at the crossroads of faith and politics once again, as her longstanding dispute with Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone over her eligibility to receive Holy Communion continues unresolved. At the heart of the matter is a deeply personal conflict that has now reached the highest levels of the Catholic Church, with the Vatican quietly involved in reviewing the case.
The controversy began in May 2022 when Archbishop Cordileone publicly barred Pelosi from receiving Communion in the Archdiocese of San Francisco due to her vocal support for abortion. Citing Canon 915 of Catholic Church law, Cordileone argued that Pelosi’s stance constituted “grave sin” and merited exclusion from the Eucharist. Despite the ban, Pelosi has continued to receive Communion in other dioceses and even abroad. “I received Communion anyway. That’s his problem, not mine,” Pelosi said in a candid interview with National Catholic Reporter (NCR). She added that her faith remains central to her life and described the Eucharist as a profoundly personal and sacred experience.
Pelosi revealed that the dispute is now under Vatican review, although the timeline and specifics of her appeal remain unclear. According to canon law experts, individuals subjected to such bans can request a “recourse” with the Holy See, challenging the procedural or substantive grounds of the decision. While Pelosi has not discussed the matter directly with Pope Francis, she received Communion during a 2022 Mass he presided over at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Pope’s implicit acceptance of her participation adds a layer of complexity to the debate, reflecting broader tensions between progressive Catholic leaders and conservative U.S. bishops.
In response to Pelosi’s recent remarks, Cordileone issued a statement reiterating his invitation for an open dialogue.
“Dialogue can dissolve hostilities, clarify misconceptions, and build new bonds of friendship,” he said.
Cordileone has previously emphasized his actions as a defense of life, arguing that the Church’s teachings on abortion leave no room for ambiguity. The Archbishop has also framed the discussion as an opportunity to explore areas of shared concern, such as religious freedom and immigration. “Catholics do not fear the truth,” he said, urging Pelosi to engage in conversation.
Pelosi’s public faith journey highlights the tension between personal beliefs and public policy, a challenge faced by many Catholic politicians. She has expressed her commitment to the Church’s sacraments, recalling cherished moments such as her First Communion and the baptisms of her grandchildren. Her love for the faith is evident, even as she questions certain institutional practices.
However, Pelosi has also openly criticized the Vatican on issues beyond her Communion ban. In a December 10 interview with NCR, she condemned the Holy See’s agreement with China regarding the appointment of bishops, calling it a betrayal of the Gospel. “I don’t see what they’ve achieved,” she said.
Pelosi’s case underscores the growing division within the Catholic Church over how to engage with modern political and social issues. The Communion ban is part of a broader culture war that has seen bishops take similar actions against other pro-choice politicians, including Senator Dick Durbin. For Pelosi, the Eucharist remains a deeply spiritual experience, transcending the controversies surrounding her.
“Every day, a priest transforms bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ—it’s a miracle,” she said. “To be present for that is glorious.”
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