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Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s May 11 commencement address at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas stirred controversy due to its religious focus. In his speech, Butker discussed the difficulties that the graduating class had faced due to COVID-19 and poorly executed policies, as well as the importance of being faithful Catholics. Butker also expressed criticisms towards leaders who publicly proclaim Catholic faith but do not adhere to its teachings.
Butker shared his own experiences, including the hesitations he had about giving the speech, his past commencement address at Georgia Tech, and his own conversion to the faith. The football star gave advice to graduates about staying true to their Catholic faith, the importance of good leadership, and the priority of focusing on personal vocations rather than worrying about the global issues of the day.
The NFL player also candidly discussed his views on the state of the Catholic Church, condemning some priests for prioritizing their personal interests over leading their flocks. He criticized the emasculation of men in society and advocated for traditional values and practices, such as the traditional Latin Mass.
Butker’s wife, Isabelle, was also mentioned in his speech, with him attributing his success to her commitment to her vocation as a wife and mother. He further advised the female graduates to celebrate their potential to be mothers and wives over career advancements. He also urged the male graduates to embrace masculinity and their leadership roles.
Butker’s faith-based speech sparked backlash that was later addressed by both the NFL and the city of Kansas City. Despite this, Butker stood by his message and hoped that his words would resonate with the students as they moved onto the next chapter of their lives.
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