NEW JERSEY
National Catholic Reporter
Brian Roewe | Feb. 20, 2014 NCR Today
With backlash building faster than the three-story extension to Archbishop John Myers’ soon-to-be retirement residence, the Newark, N.J., archdiocese responded Tuesday to the criticism.
A statement on the archdiocese’s official blog classified recent news coverage of the construction as containing “a number of misrepresentations.” It clarified that Myers’ principal residence has been the rectory of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, “where he lives in community with four other priests.” It also noted that previous bishops — including Archbishop Peter Leo Gerety and Cardinal Theodore McCarrick — also maintained weekend residences.
As first reported by the Newark Star-Ledger, Myers’ 4,500-square-foot weekend residence is currently undergoing a $500,000 renovation (before furnishings, landscaping and other costs) to add a three-story, 3,000-square-foot wing in preparation of his eventual retirement. Realtors differ on what constitutes a mansion, but typically place the minimum square footage between 6,000 and 8,000.
Blueprints show the expected amenities will include a library, three fireplaces, a gallery for panoramic views of the grounds, a hot tub, and an endless pool (used for swimming laps) — adding to the outdoor pool already on the grounds.
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