The following is an edited compilation of many questions received via site comments, the contact form and my personal email. Thank you for your input. April 7, 2011 Your Eminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali: In the spirit of Vatican Council II’s Decree on Ecumenism, I ask you these questions on behalf of Catholics4Change. We are a … Continue reading Letter & Questions for Cardinal Rigali Sent Certified, Express Mail
Category: Prevent & Advocate
No Policy and No Accountability = No Trust
Another Long Lent The abuse crisis resurfaces in Philadelphia by Nicholas P. Cafardi, Commonweal Magazine, April 2011 Last month, three Philadelphia priests were indicted for sexual abuse, and their former vicar for clergy was charged with child endangerment. Perhaps more troubling, those indictments came after a grand jury found “substantial evidence of abuse” committed by … Continue reading No Policy and No Accountability = No Trust
What Is Your Question for Cardinal Rigali?
We are collecting question suggestions to forward to Cardinal Rigali. We can't promise answers, but we can promise to send the chosen questions by certified mail to his offices at the Archdiocese. We will share the final list in a future post.
Comment from a Priest
I just had to share this comment from Father John S. Wintermyer. I hope more clergy step forward and speak out. "I totally support your attempt to bring justice to this issue. As catholic Priest from WDC ( diocesan), I am appalled and ashamed that Philadelphia has been so corrupted by this power game as … Continue reading Comment from a Priest
When Will Our Voices Grow?
Poem submitted by Nancy Buck WHEN Will Our Voices Grow? When will our small, scattered voices grow-- Beyond the gritted teeth, the sideline scowls, The silent rage at the pride-poisoned show, The burning righteousness; the wounded howls? WHEN WILL our voices grow? Beyond presence denied or the check refused? Another tear to weep for the … Continue reading When Will Our Voices Grow?
My Plea for Transparency
Here is the segment on FOX 29 from 11 a.m. this morning. Please join us in a rally tomorrow at noon until one in front of the Archdiocesan building at 222 N. 17th Street, Philadelphia 19006. There is a parking lot at 18th and Vine.
Benefit of the Doubt
What does "engaged in inappropriate behavior with minors mean?" What does "credibly accused" mean? What are the exact guidelines for placing a priest on administrative leave? What is meant by "interim measure?" Will these priests see their day in court to be cleared or charged? If so, when? Why won't the Philadelphia Archdiocese share the … Continue reading Benefit of the Doubt
Clarification of Church Boycott
I would like to make an important clarification to a call to action made in the FOX 29 10 p.m. news broadcast. I asked that Catholics who can't make the rally this Friday, attend Mass on Saturday and leave the churches empty on Sunday. We want to create a very visual statement (empty pews) that … Continue reading Clarification of Church Boycott
Catholics4Change In the News
Click to watch FOX PHILLY 29 Catholics4Change segment, March 29, 10 p.m. news. I'd like to clarify the intention of this site is not to convince anyone to stay in or leave the Catholic Church. The site was established to allow you to share your thoughts regardless of your status. The change we are seeking … Continue reading Catholics4Change In the News
Bold, Brazen Article
Click here to read Inquirer columnist Clark DeLeon's personal perspective in "A Catholic Confesses." Below is a quote from DeLeon's piece. I hadn't heard "bold, brazen article" since it was used to describe me in high school by my English teacher Sister Marie Therese. "You bold, brazen article! Yes, I am. For you younger SLCA … Continue reading Bold, Brazen Article
