Sanibel Congregation Comes Together for Priest in Hot Water

By Levi Ismail
NBC 2
December 5, 2016

http://www.nbc-2.com/story/33917271/sanibel-congregation-comes-together-for-priest-in-hot-water

[with video]

A Sanibel parish is rallying for their priest to return to the altar after investigations by deputies come to an end.

Dozens prayed in the parking lot of St. Isabel's Catholic Church and signed more than 500 petition signatures for the Diocese of Venice to reinstate Father Christopher Senk.

"It's a remarkable turn out," said Leo Larkin of St. Isabel's Catholic Church.

Larkin is one of many parishioners who signed the petition in support of Father Senk who has served the church for nearly 14 years.

Since he left the altar in October, the investigation from the Lee County Sheriff's Office ended. The department claims it found probable cause that Senk used his influence to get money from a parishioner suffering with dementia. Still, no charges were filed.

"Where the frustration and the anger is, is then why are we continuing this process when he has been exonerated," asked James Salzman of Sanibel.

The state attorney's office declined to press charges saying it could not find enough evidence to move this case to the courts.

The only investigation left is by the diocese, which only frustrates the parishioners even more.

"I think it's fair to say that they're concerned and troubled," Larkin said.

In a statement from the diocese, they said the allegations alone are enough to warrant a review on their end.

For them, it's about holding priests to a higher standard. A standard the parishioners feel the father has already met and continues to do so one homily at a time.

"We've had a wonderful pastor for these many years," Larkin said. "People come from all over the world to visit this church, and they visit for his homilies."

The diocese said their investigation is ongoing and that Father Senk will undergo a pastoral review. Until the review is complete, Senk remains on paid administrative leave.

The St. Isabel's Church declined to comment.