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  New Priest Appointed for Darien Church

Associated Press, carried in Stamford Advocate
June 3, 2006

http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/local/state/hc-03212655.apds.
m0413.bc-ct--priejun03,0,7581433.story?coll=hc-headlines-local-wire

Darien, Conn. - Bridgeport Bishop William Lori announced the appointment Saturday of a new pastor for a Darien church where an investigation of financial improprieties resulted last month in the resignation of two priests.

The Rev. Frank C. McGrath will take over Monday at St. John Roman Catholic Church. McGrath, the director of clergy personnel for the Diocese of Bridgeport, is one of Lori's closest advisers and has 36 years of experience, the bishop said.

"Father McGrath is one of our finest priests," Lori said. "He has extensive and invaluable experience as a pastor, and connects easily and warmly with all age groups."

Former pastor the Rev. Michael Jude Fay resigned after he was accused of using church money to pay for a lavish lifestyle with another man. A private investigator said he documented at least $200,000 in church money Fay spent on limousine rides, dinners at famous restaurants, cruises and gifts. Local and federal authorities are investigating Fay, who has not been charged.

The Rev. Michael Madden replaced Fay as acting administrator but resigned a week later after he revealed that he was the one who hired the private investigator.

The parish serves 1,600 families.

Monsignor William Scheyed of St. Aloysius in New Canaan has helped oversee St. John's as the interim administrator after Madden's resignation.

"Father McGrath is the right person to inspire and lead parishioners on the path to unity and healing," Scheyd said.

On the Net:

Bridgeport diocese: www.bridgeportdiocese.com

 
 

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