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  Priests' Voices: of Health and the Devil

The Hartford Courant [Hartford CT]
January 19, 2003

Many of the Catholic priests who responded to The Courant's survey added comments on health, spiritual life - and their opinion of the newspaper's coverage of sexual abuse by some priests. Here is a sampling:

"A priest's health and well-being should be the concern of the entire Catholic community."
- Anonymous.

"As a priest - especially today - one needs a sense of humor about oneself."
- the Rev. Gene Gianelli, Woodbridge.

"There is no way The Hartford Courant will publish anything balanced regarding the Catholic Church or Catholic priests. Long ago, The Courant sold its soul to the Devil in exchange for profits. Surely no priest who loves the Church will help you prepare another smear series to slander the Church."
- Anonymous

"I do wish I had more time for a personal spiritual life - and maybe even some recreation time - but most priests are very busy."
- Anonymous.

"To be a priest nowadays is a very stressful undertaking. Compounding this is the lack of a support system provided by the diocese."
- Anonymous.

"I am 70 years old and am responsible for 2 parishes. This 'scandal' has been devastating. The media hype has been inexcusable. 300 names out of 46,000 priests over 40 years, in a celibate group - come on! While the problem is real, it has been blown vastly out of proportion."
- Anonymous.

"The current Archbishop, Daniel Cronin, provided little support for his priests. He has never met with his priests regarding the current scandal, unlike most bishops."
- Anonymous.

"Please tell me this is a joke!! There is no chance of objectivity or honesty in dealing with The Hartford Courant."
- Anonymous.

"My priesthood is the most important thing in my life. It defines who I am. And the most important thing for a priest is to be of service. It's not about me, it's about the Lord!"
- Anonymous.

"I am happy, in good health and balance well my spiritual and social life."
- Anonymous.

"I think parishioners are even more supportive of me since the scandal broke. They never fail to let me know I am loved and appreciated."
- the Rev. Kevin Forsyth, New Britain.

"It's a great life if you don't weaken."
- Anonymous.

 
 

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