The Rev. Thomas Tobin, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence, has requested a meeting with Rep. Patrick Kennedy to discuss Kennedy's criticism of Tobin last week over the issue of national health care.

Kennedy criticized the church hierarchy for objecting to any national health care reform that would allow  funding of abortions. Under current law, no taxpayer money can be used to finance abortions.

In a letter to Kennedy, Tobin said, ``For many years the Catholic Church has been clear and consistent in its support of comprehensive health care reform; that support continues continues to this day. As Congress nears agreement on a final bill, I believe it is important that you are provided with specific facts about the Catholic Church's position on this critical issue.''

The office of Kennedy's spokeswoman, Kerrie Bennett, was not immediately available for comment.