Church must pay heed to what is happening
A state Supreme Court special grand jury report concluded in 2003 that an established pattern of abuse and cover-up existed in the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Credit: Danielle Silverman
Church must pay heed to what is happening
Thank you, Pat McDonough for your wonderfully written but sad essay about our local Catholic diocese ["The Catholic clergy has broken the bank," Opinion, Oct. 10]. If the past is any indication of the future, our bishop will ignore the essay as he has with any criticism toward the diocese.
After decades of clergy abuse, one would think Catholic leaders would learn humility, but instead their morally superior behavior refuses to welcome the LGBTQ+ community, and they still treat women as inferior. Is it any wonder why the pews are empty? As the essay said, this arrogance and hypocrisy, consistent with men of power, is exactly the reason Christ condemned the high priests of his day.
While clergy abuse victims suffered most, the criminal cover-up by bishops and cardinals unfairly punished the majority of faithful priests. Our tiny parish in Carle Place has fortunately been blessed with wonderful pastors past and present, and I’m sure the same can be said for parishes across Long Island.
I’m unsure how McDonough’s suggestion of remuneration could be implemented, but we certainly need a change in leadership at our diocese. Our bishop should not receive any funds from local parishes.
Jim Hickey, Westbury
I have kept my family away from the church. I believe the Catholic Church's tax status should be revoked. We've imprisoned organized crime syndicate members, but this organization operates without disruption. Why is that?
Chris Pascale, Holbrook
Pat McDonoughessay on the Catholic clergy breaking the bank was right on target. Her suggestion that the laity be more involved in handling money and distributing assets for the greater good was insightful. II seems, though, that the clergy as well as the hierarchy are reluctant to let the laity get involved in any significant decision-making. What a tragedy. As McDonough said, let's "weep for all that has been lost."
Anne Kerrigan, West Islip
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