The pro-choice Democratic–and Catholic–New Mexico governor is going to Rome next week with his archbishop, Michael Sheehan, to a special lighting ceremony at the Colosseum in honor of the state’s decision to repeal the death penatly. The effort was a long slog, and one the Catholic bishops helped push it over the top.

According to this story, Richardson and the delegation will also be part of the general audience with Pope Benedict XVI. No mention of an honorary degre, however.

Hat Tip: RNS blog