To the editor:
It is very sad when leaders of our Catholic Church will take a false stand to escape dire financial situations. Recently Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of the Tucson, Ariz., Diocese filed bankruptcy in order to avoid liability due to sexual abuse cases that are pending again the Diocese.
A similar case took place in the State of Oregon, where the bishop of Portland through court proceedings declared the Diocese of Portland in bankruptcy.
It is the church doctrine that continuously tells us to not deceive, lie or bear fault witness. It is a shame that some of our Catholic bishops who should shepherd with great pride, show us lack of responsibility and it is not a good example to other faiths. I am sure if one of us would confess to the priest that we had deliberately lied to avoid due debts by filing bankruptcy, the priest would tell us of great dishonesty and would commit sin.
The bishops of Tucson and Portland with their actions have not set an honest example by filing bankruptcy in order to avoid their penitence. If the two dioceses are actually broke without any treasury remaining, they should not be able to continue to operate! The bishops of Tucson and Portland should resign as they have faltered their church community.
Paul Saltarello
Beech Tree Road
Auburn
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