CHICAGO -- Chicago Archbishop Blase Cupich said financial challenges facing Illinois could impact how the church helps those in need. He said he realizes it's a challenging time for lawmakers in Springfield.
"We see ourselves as bringing some light to the discussion here, not heat. And I think that as long as we continue to have that dialog in a respectful way and let people know what really is at issue," Cupich said.
In June, Cupich will travel to Rome. While Cupich is certain to meet Pope Francis, no one-on-one is scheduled.
"Well, I will meet him no doubt at the Mass, maybe in the sacristy beforehand or certainly when he presents the pallium (a cloak) to me. It's really going to be up to him whether or not he's going to say he would like more time with me. I'm at his disposal, although I do want to be present to the people who are coming with us. There will be a full schedule, but I think I can break away if he asks me to do that," he said.