‘Rigid hierarchy’ blamed for removal of priest who fathered child
December 06, 2011
Father Stan Strycharz was removed as pastor of his southwest Florida parish because he fathered a child and because questions arose about $1 million in undocumented expenses. Yet a Fort Myers News-Press article portrays him as a victim:Strycharz’s words provide a glimpse behind the secrecy that shrouds a diocese that operates as much like a mega-corporation as it does a spiritual organization.
In that scenario, the CEO would be the bishop, whose word is considered law.
Documents and emails exchanged between [Bishop Frank] Dewane and Strycharz and his representatives depict a rigid hierarchy.
They also highlight the yawning chasm between those members who push for the church to allow priests’ marriage, the ordination of women, promotion of dialogue and academic freedom, and the opening of finances against those who fight to maintain tradition.
Strycharz, who does not provide child support for his daughter, still receives a salary of $500 per month from the Diocese of Venice.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Exclusive: 'In my heart I'll always be a priest' (Fort Myers News-Press)
- Recently removed Florida priest fathered child (CWN, 8/6/10)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
-
Posted by: -
Dec. 06, 2011 7:23 PM ET USA
I didn't read the whole article, but the first few paragraphs were VERY telling. It's pretty typical really: A news source only reluctantly admits to a bishop's legitimate authority; a priest who wishes to see the Church change Her discipline, practice, and belief regarding who may be ordained, and so forth, decides to violate his vow of celibacy and ignore his Holy Orders, so he "gets busy" with a woman and becomes a father. We've seen this before. Tragic. ..And boring.
-
Posted by: New Sister -
Dec. 06, 2011 3:49 PM ET USA
It's quite a flattering article - about His Excellency!
