Posted on 04/19/2012 1:07:58 PM PDT by caldera599
Charleston, W.Va., Apr 19, 2012 / 11:20 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Bishop Michael J. Bransfield of Wheeling-Charelston, W.Va. denied allegations of sex abuse against him during April 18 court proceedings in the criminal trial against a Pennsylvania priest.
“To now be unfairly included in that group and to hear the horrific allegations that are being made of me is unbelievable and shocking,” Bishop Bransfield said in an April 19 statement.
A witness in the trial against Monsignor William Lynn – who is accused of covering up sex abuse accusations within the Philadelphia Archdiocese – told the court that he was sexually abused by Philadelphia priest Fr. Stanely Gana on property belonging to Bishop Bransfield over 30 years ago.
(Excerpt) Read more at catholicnewsagency.com ...
First off, I want to say I have no sympathy whatsoever with any cleric who is CONVICTED of abuse. That said, considering the fact that the Catholic Church has pushed back against Obama and his campaign to weaken the church I have expected his allies in the media to come to his assistance. With tens of thousands of priests, there will be some who are not worthy of the collar. That has been the case for centuries. They are after all human with all the weaknesses and failings that go with that. But for every Borgia there have been thousands like John Paul II and Mother Theresa. I do know that the Church has been more diligent in persuing these scoundrels. But expect alot more of these stories to be splashed all over the media the closer we get to November. Currently my own diocese here in Arlington Va. for example. You better not go against a thug from Chicago and not expect some payback.
The Bishop is maintaining his innocence. He is entitled to his day in Court, like every other American.
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