The cancellation of the annual Pope John XXIII High School fundraiser, which was to feature Congressmen Ed Markey and Mike Capuano as award recipients, was a great disappointment to the hundreds of people set to attend it.
Cancelling such an affair at the last moment was difficult, according to the school’s principal, Kay Donovan.
“I did what had to be done. It does not diminish the value of the relationships shared with the congressmen for our school,” she said.
The Pope John Pinnacle Awards event, as it is named, was cancelled because of a Conference of Bishop’s rule that does not allow honors to be given out by the school to individuals whose public positions are inconsistent with church doctrine.
Both congressmen’s pro-choice and birth control stands made it impossible for the school to confer honors on them for their public service and diligence on behalf of the community and many underserved populations.
Both congressmen said they understood.
“I have the greatest respect for the staff, students and families of Pope John XXIII High School and I am truly honored that they would consider recognizing my service to the Commonwealth. Even though circumstances have changed, my support for the school remains strong, and my appreciation for their efforts to acknowledge my work is not diminished,” Congressman Mike Capuano told the Independent.
Congressman Edward Markey mirrored Capuano’s comments.
“I am honored to have been chosen for recognition. I understand and appreciate the school’s official position. It does nothing to lessen my support for Pope John XXIII High School,” Markey said.
Ms. Donovan has returned donations to the sponsors of the event.
Daniel Doherty, who was also to be honored, will be given a special night at a dinner sponsored by the high school and honoring Doherty’s record of hard work and volunteerism for Pope John.