U.S. Bishop: ‘They Are Still Allegations But as Your Shepherd I Find Them to Be Credible’

From Wikipedia/Creative Commons

By Deacon Greg Kandra, Patheos, August 26, 2018

Hours after the story broke, we now have the first significant episcopal response to the allegations by Archbishop Viganò, from Bishop Joseph Strickland in Tyler, Texas.

While there are still a lot of unanswered questions about this story—and strong skepticism in some quarters— the bishop is nonetheless posting the letter from the former nuncio on the diocesan website, and directing his response to be mentioned at all parishes and included in all websites:

Dear Priests, Deacons, Religious and all Holy Faithful of the Diocese of Tyler,

A letter (see below) by Archbishop Vigano, former Nuncio to the United States, raises grave allegations and calls for the resignation of numerous high ranking prelates including Pope Francis.

Let us be clear that they are still allegations but as your shepherd I find them to be credible.  Using this standard the response must be a thorough investigation similar to those conducted any time allegations are deemed to be credible.  I do not have the authority to launch such an investigation but I will lend my voice in whatever way necessary to call for this investigation and urge that it’s findings demand accountability of all found to be culpable even at the highest levels of the Church.  As this unfolds I urge all in the Diocese of Tyler to pray fervently for Holy Mother Church and beg the Intercession of Our Blessed Mother.  We are the flock of Jesus Christ.  He is Lord of His Church and His Holy Spirit will guide us through this darkness.

Almighty God Father, Son and Spirit have mercy on your Church and cleanse her in the fires of your Love.

Blessed Virgin Mary, Pray for us

All Sainted Popes & Bishops in Heaven, Pray for us

All Holy Men and Women, Pray for us

I direct all priests to include this notice  in the masses on August 26, and post it on their websites and other social media immediately.

Most Reverend Joseph E. Strickland, Bishop of Tyler

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2018/08/u-s-bishop-they-are-still-allegations-but-as-your-shepherd-i-find-them-to-be-credible/