Letter from the Rev. John Fleckenstein

St. Philip Roman Catholic Church
January 21, 2016

http://ru.scribd.com/doc/296173209/Letter-From-the-Rev-John-Fleckenstein

Dear members of the Battle Creek Area Catholic Community,

I wish to inform you that Archbishop John Nienstedt has decided to discontinue his pastoral assistance for St. Philip Parish, effective immediately. After discussions with the Archbishop conveying the expressed concerns by the faithful people of our community, he offered to withdraw from the diocese and I agreed. Archbishop Nienstedt has a deep concern for the Church, and in light of the unintended discord that his presence was causing, he decided that this would be the best course of action so the Church can remain focused on its mission. At the same time, the Archbishop shared with me the deep gratitude he has for the hospitality he received from so many of our parishioners.

A very regrettable circumstance of Archbishop Nienstedt’s presence within our community has been anger and fear.

I’m proud of the good works of our parishes and our Catholic schools as well as our valuable place in our community. I wish for us to continue growing and striving. My hope is that we can move forward together. I wish Archbishop Nienstedt well and I know many of you do as well. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, as called for by Pope Francis, I pray we may find peace, support, and healing for ourselves and with each other, and that we continue to care for all people with charity.

Sincerely, Very Rev. John D. Fleckenstein, V.E. Pastor