Dear Reader, many of the parishioners of my two beloved parishes received another surprising e-mail from our bishop earlier today. It announced that I was removed as pastor, effective immediately.

A parishioner phoned me about this, which led me to check my own e-mail inbox. I had a letter from the bishop’s office, too. Pack your bags.

I have no intention of packing my bags.

The Church must operate according to the rule of law. I have a knowledgeable canon lawyer guiding me. I will take recourse against the bishop’s decision. And while that process unfolds, I remain in place as pastor of St. Joseph and St. Francis.

Click HERE for my letter to the parishioners. [Click HERE for a follow-up post about priestly obedience.]

Here’s me explaining this in English…

and Spanish…

Pay no attention to the crocs under the desk 🙂

May the good Lord reward you for your kindness, dear reader. May He deliver us from every trial.