Catholics here set protest over health-plan issue

Only churches are exempt from the mandate but not their affiliated charities or universities. President Obama recently has signaled a willingness to expand some exemptions, but religious advocates say they shouldn't be required to do anything that contradicts their faith.

"This is a religious liberty issue," said Steven Bozza, 57, director of the Archdiocese's Respect Life Office, who helped organize the rally. "This is not a contraceptive issue."

Bozza, who teaches biology and theology at Immaculata University, said people shouldn't be surprised about restrictive policies at religious institutions.

"If you go to a Chinese restaurant are you expecting to see lasagna on the menu?" he asked rhetorically.

Area Catholics have welcomed Chaput's vocal opposition, said Rocco Palmo, 29, a Philadelphia native and creator of the religious blog "Whispers in the Loggia."

"There's a new sheriff in town and he is very different than those who came before him," he said.