SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Ten priests belonging to the Roman Catholic order that helps run the University of Notre Dame want the school to reconsider having President Barack Obama deliver this year’s commencement address and receive an honorary degree.

The 10 members of the Congregation of the Holy Cross signed an open letter published today in the campus newspaper.They ask Notre Dame president the Rev. John Jenkins, also a Holy Cross priest, and the university’s board of fellows to reconsider the invitation to Obama because he supports abortion rights.

They say failing to do so will damage the university’s integrity as a Catholic institution.The 12 fellows include six Holy Cross priests. Their charter includes ensuring that Notre Dame maintains its Catholic character.