Statement of Fr. Joe on August 4, 2020 about Deacon V.M. Wheeler: Yesterday I sent an email to our community with the Archbishop’s statement removing Deacon V.M. from ministry. I also spoke about this issue at both parish masses this morning. To re-cap, yesterday afternoon, Archbishop Aymond removed Deacon V.M. from diaconal ministry because of an abuse allegation filed against him within the past week. The claim alleges abuse 20 years ago. Deacon V.M. was ordained a deacon two years ago, in June of 2018, and has served at St. Francis since his ordination. He was not a deacon when this abuse was alledged to have occurred. There have been no allegations of abuse or misconduct against him during his time of service as a deacon. The current allegation is against Deacon V.M. personally rather than against the Church. We need to take all allegations of abuse seriously and pray for all the abused. We also need to pray for everyone who is accused of abuse. In that spirit, let us commit to praying for everyone affected by the present allegation. May God bring grace, healing and truth for all. I stand ready as your Pastor to speak with anyone who would like to talk about this situation. You may contact me at the Parish Office. God bless. Fr. Joe
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