BishopAccountability.org

Here’s what people are saying about David Talley, Memphis’ new bishop

By Katherine Burgess
Commercial Appeal March 5, 2019
March 5, 2019

https://bit.ly/2C7OKeT

[with video]

Pope Francis has appointed Bishop David P. Talley of Alexandria, Louisiana, the new bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Memphis, according to an announcement from the Vatican.

Talley's appointment follows the removal of Bishop Martin Holley in October. Since then, Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville has been apostolic administrator for Memphis.

Here’s what people are saying about Talley, who was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Atlanta in 1989 and became bishop of Alexandria in 2017.

Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, apostolic administrator for Memphis:

"(Talley) has served well as a diocesan bishop of Alexandria in Louisiana and as a canon lawyer," Kurtz said in a written statement Tuesday. "Most importantly, he brings the heart of a pastor and a sterling reputation as a good shepherd devoted to Jesus Christ and His Church, deeply concerned for those he serves, humble, and wise."

Bishop J. Terry Steib, Memphis bishop from 1993-2016:

“I’m glad that Bishop David accepted to come, because he brings a lot of good qualities and talents with him that he has," Steib said. "In particular, he’s very pastoral, very listening and knows how to work with people. I think that’s going to be his best feature."

The Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana

"In all things Bishop Talley fostered a spirit of unity and hope in planning for the future of the diocese while building on its long history," according to a statement from Talley's curent diocese. "As a diocese we wish him well in his new appointment as we give heartfelt thanks to God for his time and work among us here in Central Louisiana."

SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests) of Tennessee:

SNAP of Tennessee issued a statement Tuesday saying they are “encouraged” that Talley has been a caseworker for abused and neglected children, but are “also cautious,” particularly since Talley’s diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana, did not attach work histories to a list of clergy accused of abuse.

"As a victim of clergy sexual abuse, I am hoping for better than what we have heard so far from Bishop Talley," says David Brown, SNAP leader in the Memphis area.  "I know what victims of clergy sexual abuse want and it is not continued cover-up of facts.  We want total transparency about what has gone on and so do the people in the pews." 

Rocco Palmo, Catholic commentator and writer:

Palmo wrote on his blog, “Whispers in the Loggia,” that Talley is “hyper-relational,” even leading him to be dubbed “The Tazmanian Devil” for his flurry of activity.

“Taz being Taz, it's a safe bet that the new bishop will come up with some new push to ensure and enhance the church's ongoing mission and presence in the struggling city – if he hasn't figured it out already, give him 'til noon,” Palmo wrote.

John Smarrelli, president of Christian Brothers University:

Smarrelli posted on Twitter welcoming Talley to Memphis.

“We at CBU look forward to working with you,” he said.

Jim Strickland, Memphis mayor:

Strickland also tweeted a welcome to Talley, remarking that a University of Memphis Tigers hat “looks great” after Talley tried one on at a press conference introducing him to Memphis Tuesday morning.

Contact: katherine.burgess@commercialappeal.com




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