Diocese Disputes Pelotte Report, Gallup Independent, August 1, 2007

Diocese Disputes Pelotte Report

Gallup Independent
August 1, 2007

http://www.gallupindependent.com/2007/august/080107is_dcsdsptpltrprt.html

Gallup — A news story about the Gallup Police report on Bishop Donald E. Pelotte's injuries generated a response from the Rev. James E. Walker.

Walker, the vicar general for the Diocese of Gallup, issued the following response Tuesday.

"I know that many are concerned about the bishop's condition and there is much speculation as to what happened to cause Bishop's injuries."

"I ask you to please focus on what we know for certain: Bishop was alone in his home and there were no signs of a struggle, forced entry, presence of another person, or missing items from the bishop's home. Bishop has responded repeatedly, when asked about what happened, merely that he fell. Bishop's injuries, although great, are consistent with injuries sustained by falling down a staircase, landing on a ceramic tile floor and possibly hitting the wall; which is all feasible considering the layout of Bishop's staircase and surrounding area and consistent to the brief explanation Bishop has been able to relate to us thus far."

Bishop Donald E. Pelotte of the Diocese of Gallup speaks during a Mass held in 2004 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup.

"When Bishop Pelotte fully recovers I feel certain that he will tell us as much as he can remember of this tragic incident. Until that time, let us all use caution in speculating and/or causing reason to speculate of what might have happened. Our focus and prayers need to be on Bishop's recovery, and quick return to his people."

"I visited with Bishop earlier today," Walker concluded, "and he continues to make reasonable progress."

In addition, the diocese also released a statement on Monday about the meeting Walker held with the six priests who are members of the Diocesan College of Consultors. According to the diocese, the group discussed the on-going administration of the diocese, canonical considerations, and communications.

"The Consultors unanimously decided that at the present time the diocese is not canonically impeded," the release stated. "That is to say, Bishop Pelotte is able to sufficiently communicate so that the provisions of Canon Law regarding an 'impeded See' do not apply to the situation facing the Diocese of Gallup at the present time."

Pelotte continues to remain in serious but stable condition in the intensive care unit at Phoenix's John C. Lincoln Hospital, chancery officials said.