NEW YORK
Bronx Times
AUGUST 14, 2015
By Patrick Rocchio
An embattled church pastor has heard from a higher authority.
The Archdiocese of New York issued directives to the pastor of St. Frances de Chantal Church, encouraging him to improve his stewardship after parishioners raised concerns about his handling of cash donations and his strained relations with his flock.
The parishioners, totalling about 30, have learned that seven directives have been issued by Timothy Cardinal Dolan to Fr. Peter Miqueli, pastor of the Throggs Neck house of worship.
An official Archdiocese of New York spokesman did not respond to requests for confirmation of the directives’ contents.
Two of the church leaders, Jack Lynch and Janet Bitner, said that while they were not permitted to see the actual letter Fr. Miqueli received, key portions were read to them by an Archdiocean representative, acting a a mediator, at a restaurant meeting they attended in City Island several weeks ago.
Among the alleged management directives are:
• the Archdiocese of New York will conduct an audit of St. Frances’ finances
• the pastor must publish parish collections in the church bulletin, with the figures verified by an impartial witness.
• annual financial statements must be issued.
• the pastor must appoint a Parish Finance Council
• Fr. Miqueli must appoint two new trustees, which must be selected from among long-time parishioners
• Fr. Miqueli must form a parish council, with the first step being the establishment of a nominating committee.
So far, said Bitner, it does not appear that the pastor has moved on any of the directive’s demands, but she added that the group has to give the priest some time.
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