Pope Likely To Meet Discord On Visit (Press, 9 September 1987)

Pope John Paul II is set to embark on a nine-city tour of the United States from 10 to 19 September 1987, following his previous visit in 1979 that earned him widespread admiration. However, this time, his visit is expected to be met with significant protest and criticism from various groups, indicating that the initial support has diminished. Feminist groups, AIDS activists, homosexual rights advocates, Jewish organisations, pro-abortion groups, and disaffected Roman Catholics are all planning to voice their objections during the tour. The Pope's traditional stances on issues such as abortion, birth control, artificial insemination, and women's roles have drawn growing dissent, particularly among American Catholics. A recent poll revealed that many US Catholics disagree with Vatican teachings on these important matters, leading to increased scrutiny of the Pope's views. Jean Clark from the National Organisation for Women expressed that "the honeymoon is over" and highlighted the significant problems many Americans have with the Pope. While church officials have downplayed the protests and asserted that supporters will outnumber dissenters, concerns remain that the upcoming demonstrations could overshadow the Pope's intended message. Reverend Noel Bennett, a key organiser for the tour, described the opposition as being from "a few small-minded people" who will be overshadowed by a larger welcoming contingent. Anti-abortion demonstrations are anticipated, where activists plan to establish "abortion-free zones" in cities he visits, leading to confrontations with Catholic lay groups and pro-life supporters. In Miami, the Pope will also encounter protests from Jewish groups protesting his meeting with Austrian President Kurt Waldheim, who faces allegations regarding his WWII past. AIDS, particularly in connection with the Pope's perceived indifference to gay rights and the epidemic, is highlighted as a critical issue during the tour. Protests are expected in San Francisco, a city significantly impacted by the crisis, where the Pope will hold a Mass with special seating for AIDS patients and their supporters. Miami's Cure AIDS Now group plans a rally near the venue where the Pope will meet President Ronald Reagan, reiterating the controversy surrounding his positions. Further discord is anticipated in Columbia, South Carolina, part of the historically anti-Catholic "Bible Belt," where the Rev. Adrian Rogers of the Southern Baptist Convention has declined to attend a service with the Pope, citing unspecified personal reasons. Additionally, civil libertarians are raising concerns about the cost of police protection and school closures during the visit, arguing that these actions infringe upon the separation of church and state. Overall, Pope John Paul II's impending visit to the United States is shaping up to be marked by significant dissent from various factions within society, reflecting a changing landscape of public opinion towards his papacy amidst various social issues.

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