Excommunicated Life Teen founder lashes out at bishop
March 28, 2011
Dale Fushek, the excommunicated former vicar general of the Diocese of Phoenix and founder of the international youth ministry Life Teen, has lashed out at Bishop Thomas Olmsted in a new autobiography.
“I don't know what is in his heart, but I know he treated me badly,” said Fushek, who pled guilty to a misdemeanor count of assault following charges that he had sexually abused minors. “I am still in a state of disbelief that I could go from making decisions that helped guide the Diocese of Phoenix for years and years to being someone who is so expendable to the Catholic hierarchy and the Church.”
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Further information:
- Ex-priest Dale Fushek tells all in new book on his life (Arizona Republic)
- Fushek pleads guilty to single misdemeanor (Arizona Republic)
- Pope dismisses Life Teen founder from priesthood (CWN, 2/17/10)
- Life Teen founder is excommunicated (CWN, 12/16/08)
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Posted by: unum -
Mar. 29, 2011 8:41 AM ET USA
Fushek says, “I am still in a state of disbelief that I could go from making decisions that helped guide the Diocese of Phoenix for years and years to being someone who is so expendable". I still cannot believe that a person who was ordained and occupied Mr. Fushek's position would make such a statement. Our American Church is suffering because of actions like his and because bishops did not have the courage to fire those who hurt our children. I applaud Bishop Olmsted.
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Posted by: hartwood01 -
Mar. 28, 2011 6:23 PM ET USA
Well, Dean, the fact is, the Catholic Church's children and faithful have suffered enough from your ilk and you are expendable. How could you think otherwise?
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Posted by: AgnesDay -
Mar. 28, 2011 11:42 AM ET USA
Believe it, Mr. Fushek.
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Posted by: umpynelson3459 -
Mar. 28, 2011 6:36 AM ET USA
As Fushek stated in his interview. He is so relieved that he can get on with his life. Just not in the priesthood of the Catholic Church...
