(Paralyzed actor Christopher Reeve issued the following apology to Roman
Catholics, who may have been offended by his recent remarks concerning
embryonic stem cell research. Reeve made the remarks in an interview with
Britain's Guardian newspaper.)
My remarks about President Bush consulting with Catholics before issuing his
decision concerning embryonic stem cell research on August 9, 2001 were not
intended to disparage the Catholic Church or Catholics in any way.
Freedom of religion is a basic principle of our society. I would never
criticize anyone for being a practicing Catholic, nor would I tolerate
criticism against me for being a practicing Unitarian.
However, I do believe in the separation of church and state. Our government
should not be influenced by any religion when matters of public policy are
being debated.
Because the Catholic position was given so much publicity at the time, I
singled them out for criticism. It was absolutely inappropriate for me to do
so. I wish to apologize not only to the Catholic Church but also to the
faithful of any religion who may have been offended.