Ryan made no mention of the reasons behind Conroy’s ouster in an April 16 announcement, leaving the impression among most lawmakers that the priest was leaving voluntarily. Approached Thursday about Ryan’s decision, Conroy said he did not want to talk in the media about the matter, declining further comment. “What I mean by that is to make sure they have experience in dealing with family issues.”Conroy is just the second Catholic priest to serve as House chaplain, after the Rev. Daniel P. Coughlin, who was chosen for the post in 2000 after a months-long protest by Catholic lawmakers. After a protracted fight, Coughlin was chosen for the post, making history as the first Catholic chaplain.

Source: Washington Post April 26, 2018 18:09 UTC