In this Oct. 2 photo, Abby Sherwood, at right, director of public affairs for Planned Parenthood of Central Pennsylvania Inc., videotapes members of Sts. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Mission, who are reflected in the clinic s front door. The Rev. Gabriel Tetherow is wearing the stole and surplice at center left. (Daily Record/Sunday News -- File)
Even the greatest of saints struggled against sin, and, occasionally, fell in that struggle. As a Lutheran Christian I understand that well through our doctrine of simul justus et peccator ("justified sinner").
But that truth is little appreciated within much of Christendom, much less beyond. Most will simply read this story and use it as one more reason to stay away from church, believing it to be "full of hypocrites"
Tetherow, known as Father Gabriel, first appeared on the sidewalks outside the clinic in the summer of 2008, often dressed in his vestments as if prepared to celebrate Mass....
....When they Googled Tetherow's name, Planned Parenthood volunteers learned something else unexpected: Four and a half years ago, police in Monroe County charged Tetherow with 10 counts of possessing child pornography and 10 counts of criminal use of a communication facility, according to court records....
....Tetherow, 45, declined to discuss his guilty plea. He also wouldn't talk about the 2005 decision by Roman Catholic officials that he must remove himself from public ministry as a priest pending a final disciplinary ruling by the Vatican. He now serves a York congregation that the Catholic Church considers schismatic, that is, outside the Church....
The only question I have is if the Catholics here will take credit for his pro-life activities, or if they'll ignore a Protestant for his pro-life activities....
What was this Reverend doing looking at child porn? Is this true? I admire the man’s devotion to pro-life causes,but this is troubling.I’m not judging him..it’s not my place to,and,believe me,i’m not,but it does give me pause to think.
A priest downloading child porn, who woulda thunk it? This pervert gets no pass from me just because he is pro-life.
Please read this defense written by David M. Drew, Chairman of Sts. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Mission. It was meant to be published in the York Newspaper this Sunday, but the paper will not print it. You will understand why when you read the defense.
Father is innocent.