Philly Diocese Fogs up Again

By Susan Matthews
Catholics4Change
June 19, 2017

https://catholics4change.com/2017/06/19/philly-diocese-fogs-up-again/

Is there a new transparency issue? Why isn’t Father Louis Kolenkiewicz listed in the online Archdiocesan clergy directory? He is listed in the clerical appointments that went into effect today.

Father Kolenkiewicz is returning from a removal from ministry and his new gig as parochial vicar at the Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul prompted an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer. Given this, you’d think all the i’s wouldn’t have been dotted and t’s crossed. But as of 3pm today – his name does n

The clergy directory omission is important. Both priests and laity have come to rely on the directory as a source of information. For example, a bride may request a specific priest for her wedding. Her pastor may check the clergy list to see if the priest has full faculties. Some priests don’t want to enable those removed to falsely present themselves. They know these guys bring them down and I’m sure they resent the tarnish.

Child safety and victim advocates also routinely check this list to track information.

If a priest has been removed from ministry for any reason, his name is taken off the list. Priests who do not have a clerical assignment remain on the list as long as they have full faculties. Does Father Kolenkiewicz have his full faculties? Maybe not.

The removal of faculties is a bit different than laicization. It means the bishop has removed that priests ability to perform ministry in that diocese, such as celebrating the Mass. This removal can be temporary or permanent. The removal can be specific or general. An example of specific would be if the bishop said the priest could not give homilies but could say Mass. General means that all faculties have been removed. Laicization is decided at the vatican and can be voluntary or involuntary.

Bottom line: Transparency and clericalism issues persist.