N.Ky. Catholic leaders discuss birth control, abortion at conference

ERLANGER, Ky. - The Diocese of Covington is sponsoring an open discussion on birth control and abortion Tuesday morning.

The church is discussing the new health mandate requiring health insurance policies to provide birth control and abortion services at the Conference on Religious Freedom, according to the Diocese of Covington's newsletter "The Messenger."

The mandate contradicts the Catholic church's teachings against birth control and abortions.

In May, 43 Catholic entities filed a lawsuit challenging the mandate, saying it's a violation of religious freedom.

This week, President Barack Obama's key Catholic ally to the health plan announced it's "deeply concerned" about the initiative.

The Diocese of Covington says Tuesday's conference will share detailed information for citizens about the impact of the mandate, which is set to go into effect in August 2013.

The Conference on Religious Freedom starts at 9 a.m. at Receptions Conference Center in Erlanger.

The event is open to the public, but you're asked to register by calling 859-392-1546 or visit www.OurReligiousLiberty.org .

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