MASSACHUSETTS
Telegram & Gazette
Editorial
It is especially sad when a person answers a high calling, carves a strong niche in the community, but is brought down by human frailty.
In just such a scenario, the Rev. Stephen M. Gemme has been removed from his Northboro post by Bishop Robert M. McManus. And while a fuller picture of the priest as a problem gambler and possibly embezzler waits to emerge, there is enough information to mourn, abhor, and learn from.
According to a letter from the bishop posted on the parish website over the weekend, the pastor of St. Bernadette Parish is suspected of embezzling more than $230,000 in connection with gambling.
Suspect withdrawals noticed by an official with the parish school led to a meeting in July between the priest and the bishop. The 44-year-old priest acknowledged a problem with gambling, and was put on a medical leave of absence to get treatment.
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