Here’s one that my wife alerted me to:

by Hilary White

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, May 24, 2006 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Graduates and their families got an unexpected earful of Catholic doctrine at the graduation ceremonies of St. Thomas University this weekend. Ben Kessler, a well-known student recently honoured by peers and faculty as Tommie of the Year, spoke of the “selfishness” of birth control and extra-marital sex.

An audible roar of protest erupted when Kessler asked, “What in society is selfish? I would point to the common practice of birth control…Birth control is selfish.” On a videotape of the speech obscene comments can be heard as well as shouts of “Way to go Matt!” whistles and cheers. The tape shows numerous students and parents leaving the ceremony. Kessler was interrupted several times by his audience but carried on (end excerpt)

From Faher Dennis Dease, university president:

May 22: Apology issued by student commencement speaker

by Father Dennis Dease, University of St. Thomas president

Many of you have become aware of remarks made Saturday during our undergraduate commencement exercises by Benjamin Kessler, a graduating senior.

As is our custom, the winner of the Tommie Award is asked to speak for a few minutes at graduation. Mr. Kessler won the Tommie Award earlier this year in a vote among students, faculty and staff, and thus was given the opportunity to speak.

I have shared my sentiments with Mr. Kessler that it was not appropriate for him to use the commencement exercise as a venue to express his opinions [emphasis added] on several issues. (end excerpt)

His opinions, eh? Here’s my response to Father Dease:

“to express his opinions on several issues” – Father Dease

To Father: Perhaps it would be wise for you to check your own level of submission to the teachings of Holy Mother Church. Mr. Kessler was not expressing his opinions, but the infallible teaching of the Magisterium, numberous Popes including Paul VI and John Paul II. It is disturbing that anyone should have to apologize for speaking Catholic doctrine in a Catholic venue. This type of attempt to supress the true teachings of the Church could lead to a substantial loss in credibility for her.