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By Diogenes ( articles ) | Apr 01, 2003

The manager of a Catholic diocesan newspaper resigned recently when auditors discovered that the paper's bookkeeper had embezzled funds.

The weekly newspaper's editor, Steve Paradis of Longwood, a 12-year employee, was not involved in any wrongdoing, said Carol Brinati, a spokeswoman for the Catholic Diocese of Orlando. "He resigned because it occurred on his watch," she said.

Mr. Paradis' decision to stand down because of problems that "occurred on his watch" provides an instructive contrast with the decision of New Hampshire Bishop John McCormack to remain in his position. Of course the situation is not exactly parallel.

*Paradis resigned three days after the arrest of his bookkeeper. McCormack is still in place, though his disastrous decisions go back to 1987.

*Paradis had no knowledge of his bookkeeper's misdeeds. McCormack knew of multiple accusations against the priests he cleared for reassignment.

*Paradis said, "I just felt that the best way for the newspaper and myself to move forward was to resign." McCormack said, "I cannot heal victims myself, but I am confident that I can help them."

*Paradis had responsibility for a newspaper office. McCormack has responsibility for the destiny of immortal souls.

In addition, one minor detail could occur to readers of the U.S. bishops' pastoral letter Economic Justice for All. Paradis may have a family to support.