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  Local Catholics React to Possible Resignation of Archbishop

By Sarah Buynovsky
WNEP
July 19, 2011

http://www.WNEP.com/WNEP-local-catholics-react-to-possible-resignation-of-archbishop-20110718,0,1098895.story

 

Philadelphia's Archbishop, Cardinal Justin Rigali, is scheduled to resign Tuesday, according to several published reports.

For faithful Catholics gathered at St. Ann's Novena in Scranton, that news was surprising.

Rigali has been accused of mishandling allegations of sexual abuse by priests. Earlier this year, he suspended 21 priests.

"We definitely would need somebody. A fresh start, that would be a fresh start," said Nicole Traeger of Duryea.

Rigali,76, was head of the Diocese of Scranton in 2009 when Bishop Joseph Martino resigned and before Bishop Joseph Bambera took his leadership role.

"I'm sure that all Catholics would welcome whoever was appointed in his place," said Don Mckeon of Scranton.

Rigali's successor is reported to be Archbishop Charles Chaput of Denver.

He would be the first ever Native American archbishop of Philadelphia.

"This is the first I'm hearing about it and I have goosebumps because I love Native American people. I just love them. That would be a thrill to me," said Peggy Magagna of Swoyersville.

People at the Novena said if Rigali does indeed resign, they hope his successor can breathe new life into the archdiocese.

"Mostly to bring young ones to come to church now. When you look around now, everytime we go to church, it's all us old folks, we have to encourage the young ones to come in with us," said Helen Evans of Peckville.

 
 

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