by Susan Brinkmann, OCDS Staff Writer For the first time in recent memory, the nation’s bishops have requested a private meeting with presidential candidates Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) before the election in order to discuss vital issues. Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, New York, chairman of the bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, told The Wall Street Journal that the bishops want a chance to give input on policies including abortion and other political issues. “This isn't born of any concern or worry or problem," said Bishop Murphy. "We think it would be helpful for us to have that time and we think it would be helpful for the candidates to hear from the teachers of the Catholic church …as to what our concerns are." Five bishops who lead policy committees on abortion, education, immigration, international affairs and communications want to discuss the candidates' views on social issues. The meetings, if they occur, will be private and off the record, Bishop Murphy said. Sister Mary Ann Walsh, spokeswoman for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) said neither campaign has responded to the invitation. However, a spokesman for the McCain campaign said the senator wants to accept  and is trying to arrange his schedule.   © All Rights Reserved, Living His Life Abundantly/Women of Grace. http://www.womenofgrace.com