Solidarity is needed for the committed Catholic Laity of St Elizabeth Parish, Elizabeth NJ and Catholic social activists throughout the State. They have been served by two AUSCP members : Robert Harrington and Jack Martin, who have been told to leave the parish on January 10, 2013. AUSCP member and Newark priest, Tom Ivory ('64), has made an affirmative support statement and signed a petition begun by Catholic laity. Already several other AUSCP members have signed on (Rich Renton, Paterson; Bill MacKenzie, Boston; B. Survil, Greensburg; Jack O'Malley, Pittsburgh, among others).
For background, testimonials and the place to sign on, go to the following link on change.org: http://www.change.org/petitions/archdiocese-of-newark-meet-with-parishioners-of-st-mary-of-the-assumption and then share this invitation with other, non-members of the AUSCP.
Priest assignments need to take into account service to the People of God, and not just the Archdiocesan fiscal bottom line.
If you have trouble arriving at the petition-site, contact: info4@uscatholicpriests.us
Supporters--
Rev Thomas Ivory, West Orange, NJ
I personally know each of the priests serving at St. Mary's, and can testify to their zeal and dedication to God's People. It is disheartening to learn, at this point, that the request for an explanation and a meeting for dialogue has been refused. I hope that such a decision will be reviewed and revised to meet our contemporary need for dialogue and our ecclesial need for justice.
Kim Molinelli, Woodbridge Township, NJ
The archdiocese is making a huge mistake. I first came to the Lord through that parish as a troubled teen, probably saved my life. St Mary's is a huge pillar of that community and provides enormous support to the homeless and poor. There is no reason on earth good enough for this!
Frank McCann, Wyckoff, NJ
It is basic to our understanding of our faith that we meet to discuss our differences. Failure to do so is an affront to the human dignity of every parishioner.
Julie O'Brien, Ramsey, NJ
I have seen too many priests and nun's doing the work of Jesus who have been punished for not doing the business of the Church. Enough is enough.
