VOTF - In the Vineyard

Please send comments and inquiries to leaderpub@votf.org
Copy deadline for August 14 Vineyard is August 4.
Did you get the VOTF Spring Quarterly? If not, call the VOTF office at 617-558-5252
(Our postal address is VOTF, Box 423, Newton Upper Falls, MA 02464-0002)
See Five Steps for a More Fruitful Vineyard under "Events - VOTF National"

"As soon as I lie down, I fall peacefully asleep, for you alone,
O God, bring security to my dwelling." Ps 4:9

For all the press and media attention VOTF does and doesn't receive in our 24/7 efforts to realize our goals, there remains a constantly thriving aspect underlying all that we say, do and try to do - prayer for each other and inclusive of other.

Catholics are pray-ers. It is our tradition. But our praying seems to be taking on a dimension that is putting our critics on notice - it is binding us across boundaries of location, opinion, politics and personal experience. The survivors have taught us the irrelevance of all that divides by moving us en masse toward justice. The Church has taught us the price of separation from Gospel values and the place of those values among Catholics, by the public response to morally bankrupt bishops and archdiocesan hardball legal cowering.

VOTF is teaching, too, by learning alongside Catholics everywhere that we are called to pray as Jesus taught us and to speak out as Jesus taught us. The promise that comes of this communal understanding is evident in many places - among priests who sit in dialogue with laity, among lay people who sit in dialogue with bishops, and in the bond that continues to grow stronger between survivors and laity. Recently, this last was demonstrated again in the standing ovation VOTF received at SNAP's St. Louis, Missouri convention in June. VOTF is both humbled and energized by this resounding "thank you." Our own thanks to the survivors for all that they continue to teach us about courage and truth will ring out for generations.

What seemed audacious two years ago is now routine all over the country - lay people writing and planning liturgies, using as models the Prayerful Voice initiative begun at the earliest meetings of a fledgling VOTF. You will read in Affiliates' News of one diocese after another engaged in VOTF-sponsored healing masses and liturgies and interactive homilies, all of these animated by support for survivors, our priests and our Church.

Survivor Vinnie Nauheimer reminds us in his poem, reprinted here, that the "power of God is still in the pews." Wherever VOTF representatives are giving witness - St. Louis, MO or Dallas, TX or New Zealand or the local parish - the truth of Vinnie's words resonates. Together, we pray - a tradition that seems better than ever.

Peggie L. Thorp, editor

Survivor Support News

****Steve Lynch's fasting vigil
Reported by Steve Sheehan

On June 26, at 6:00 am, survivor Steven Lynch began a period of fasting and silent meditation in front of the chancery on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, Mass. Steve has indicated that he will remain in silent meditation, taking only water, until his "inner voice" tells him that it is right for him to end this vigil.

Several survivors and VOTF survivor supporters were with Steve during the day. Although Steve is not talking, he welcomes company on his vigil, news of what is happening, both oral and written (newspaper and magazine articles), and, of course, plenty of water to keep him hydrated during these hot summer days.

Steve has just returned from a six-month visit to India where he has traveled for the past five years. Most of this time Steve spent in meditation, getting in touch with his inner being, and in this way progressing along his personal healing path. Steve shared stories of his travels with members of the Working Group on Survivor issues, on June 25, at an informal gathering hosted by Andrea Johnson of Wellesley.

****A Musical Tribute
Submitted by Steve Sheehan

On September 28, 20003 at 5:00 pm, a chamber music concert will be performed at the Edward M. Pickman Concert Hall, 27 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA.

Admission to the concert will be free. Concert attendees are asked to make a good will offering to support SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests).

The program will consist of works by Bach, Schumann, DeBussy, Barber, Loefflre and Messiaen. PLEASE HELP TO MAKE THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!

For further information please visit the survivor pages of the VOTF Web site or contact Steve Sheehan at: sheehan1777@aol.com.

****Benefit for The Lighthouse on July 18, 7-11 p.m.
An invitation to Boston Area VOTF Members. Please join us at a party to benefit The Lighthouse on July 18 from 7-11p.m. at Chelmsford Elks Hall, 300 Littleton Rd, Road, Rt. 110) Chelmsford, MA. The Lighthouse is a non-denominational center for survivors and victims of clergy abuse in East Boston. It is staffed and run by survivors. It is a safe, welcoming place for people to go when they need information and support from others who have survived similar abuse as they have. It is brand new and enjoyed its public grand opening on June 7. This family night is the first event bringing people together for the purpose of supporting The Lighthouse. RSVP to TheLighthouse77@aol.com so that we can reserve tickets for you! This party is being sponsored by The Beacons of Light, individuals from many groups that support The Lighthouse.

This party will be fun and casual with a great DJ, cash bar and dancing. Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door; families $25.

****VOTF Merrimack Valley, MA Sponsors Support of Survivors Walk 2003
Reported by Stacey Quealey and Lauren Francseschi

Several of the Merrimack Valley VOTF Affiliates sponsored Support of Survivors Walk 2003. Walkers will gather pledges based on how many laps they could walk around the soccer field (approximately 1/4 mile per lap). It was held at Merrimack College in Andover/North Andover, Massachusetts on June 29 from 1:00-5:00 pm. All pledges and donations were donated to the Survivors Appeal. The Survivors Appeal. is a non-profit fund that was established so that financial supporters could make a "one-stop" donation. The tax deductible donations collected by the Survivors Appeal. are distributed to survivor advocacy groups on an as-needed basis. Contacts: Lauren and Stacey at soswalk@yahoo.com.

****Message on recent Supreme Court decision
Reported by SNAP

United States Supreme Court Case DOES NOT AFFECT Civil Cases

Yesterday, the United States Supreme Court handed down the Stogner v. California decision that invalidated use of retroactive statutes of limitations in CRIMINAL cases. As a result, many perpetrators will escape the criminal punishment that they deserve. In this way, Stogner is a horrible decision. In any case, I write to you to assure you that the Stogner decision DOES NOT AFFECT CIVIL cases. Stogner specifically distinguishes civil cases as not being impacted. What Stogner does do is emphasize the importance of civil litigation in this critical area of childhood sexual abuse. In fact, for many, filing a civil lawsuit is the only option for exposing the abusers and those who assist them. We need to keep the faith that the journey upon which we have embarked will result in heightened protection of children. Keep making those police reports. Keep reporting crimes. If the criminally, we will prosecute civilly. Stogner has no impact whatsoever on a survivor's ability to bring a civil lawsuit.

Survivors' Voices

(Mary Grant's remarks after the Supreme Court decision on Stogner v. California. Mary is one survivor among many known and unknown. The re-victimization visited on survivors in the past two weeks prompted Mary to write this poignant appeal - truly a prayer - to all of us. Following the U. S. Supreme Court's ruling against the retroactive erasure of statutes of limitation came the Boston, MA news that despite an extended moratorium on legal pursuit of a global settlement, the Boston Archdiocese is still unable to honor their obligation to its victims.)

Statement by Mary Grant of SNAP,
Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests

First, a moment of silence for the children of Marion Stogner, who bravely disclosed their abuse and pursued justice all the way to the nation's highest court. Our hearts ache for them today.

Now, a moment of silence for children across California, who have done their moral and civic duty and reported their abuse, and whose molesters will now go free. Our hearts ache for them today.

I don't often do this, but let me briefly tell you my story.

In 1977, Father John Lenihan abused me.
In 1978, Father John Lenihan was reported to Church officials.
In 1989, I reported the crime to law enforcement and Father John described at least one of the molestations on tape; the statute of limitations had expired. In 1990, I filed a civil law suit and Father John admitted that he sexually abused me.
In 1991, I went to the media to warn parents that their kids should not be exposed to Fr. John.
In 1999, I went back to law enforcement when the law changed.

In 2001, another victim came forward who was raped and impregnated by Fr. John after he molested me. Fr. John told her to have an abortion and paid for it. For 15 years, I've warned parents about this dangerous man. Just 7 weeks ago, he was finally jailed. Now, he'll go free. I've done everything I can think of to protect kids. And while I know I have not failed, it scares me that he can roam the streets to hurt others again.

And it scares me that dozens of others who were traumatized by priests also feel sad and scared and depressed today.

We're here today to send several messages.

First, to police and prosecutors: Keep going after child molesters, despite this setback, no matter what it takes.

Second, to lawmakers: Go back and reform other dangerous, outdated laws that make exposing, removing and criminally charging perpetrators more difficult. Our laws must keep children safe. If they don't, they need to be changed.

Third, to parents: Be more careful than ever with your children. Don't assume police and prosecutors are locking up all the bad guys, because the Supreme Court makes that even harder to do.

Fourth, to Church leaders: Prosecutors cannot do your jobs for you. You must open the files on these dangerous men, expose them, and make our churches and our society safer for children.

Finally, to victims: do not give up hope.
You can get better.
You can speak up.
You can warn others.
You can protect your own kids.
Even if your abuser goes free, you can recover.
Do not give up hope.
You have survived the worst: you've survived sexual abuse at the hands of a trusted priest. It's painful, it's unjust, and it's dangerous, but you can also survive the freeing of your abuser.

The following poem by Vincent J. Nauheimer is reprinted with his permission. "Voice of the Faithful" is one of many poems dealing with the clergy abuse scandal that can be found in the book Silent Screams, Poetry Born of Clergy Abuse. This book can be purchased at: www.xlibris.com/SilentScreamsClergyAbuse.html

Voice of the Faithful
by Vinnie Nauheimer

They banded together the Voice of the Faithful
To fight behavior they knew was disgraceful.
Cardinal Bernie Law gave them no choice
They needed a platform to express their voice.
>

Preying on children was wrong in their eyes
They soon grew weary of the pack of lies.
They listened to survivors and tales of woe
Meanwhile their numbers continued to grow
>

The intention wasn't a religion to design
They didn't even call for Law to resign.
All they wanted was the religion they had
Just wishing to separate the good from the bad.
>

They were seen as promoting revolution
By the Church steeped in convolution.
Instead of being greeted with an open mind
Voice of the Faithful was openly maligned.
>

From the pulpit they were accused of deceit
On Church property they couldn't even meet.
They sought to hold the Church accountable
Why should that prove so insurmountable?
>

An old hierarchy fights to keep their power
Not believing this is their worst hour.
We like Dorothy who pulled the curtain aside,
Found floundering old wizards trying to hide
>

The power of God is in every human being
The hierarchy can't prevent us from seeing
Voice of the Faithful has got good news
The power of God is still in the pews.

Priest Support Working Group
reported by Svea Fraser

The fourth Sounding Board in the Boston archdiocese was held at St. Denis' Church in Westwood, MA on June 24, 2003. Eight priests and nine lay people gathered around a table in the rectory for an informal evening of sharing our stories and our hopes for the Church. Every time we meet, people come away with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our ordained ministers, and appreciation for our shared baptismal priesthood. Building relationships one by one encourages mutual understanding and our need to support one another. As one person admitted, as terrible as the past year and a half has been, and in no way diminishing the deep pain inflicted on survivor/victims and their families, "this has been a blessing for us because we are finding community with others, and meaning in our faith."

A summary of the evening will be posted on the VOTF website, under "Clergy Support." The Priest Support Working Group will not be meeting over the summer. This is a time for rest and reflection: Sabbath time. We ask that every time you think about our priests who are faithful to their ministry, you say a prayer on their behalf, and on behalf of all our Church.

VOICES, VOICES EVERYWHERE!

National Parish Voice has identified four U.S. regions for purposes of affiliate coordination, communication efforts and future regional definitions and representation:
WEST
Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Hawaii, Alaska
CENTRAL
North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio
SOUTH
Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida
EAST
Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia

VOTF "DOWN UNDER"

VOTF Travel
Reported by Kathy and Mark Mullaney

New Zealand: On June 15 and 29th, Kathy and Mark Mullaney, from St. John the Evangelist in Wellesley, Mass. and founding members of VOTF, met with interested VOTF affiliate programs in Christchurch, New Zealand and Sydney, Australia.

New Zealand is in a preliminary state in the process of meeting with VOTF members and discussing membership growth and possible affiliation.

Australia: On Sat June 28th and Sunday, June 29th, the Mullaneys spoke to over 500 parishioners at St. Anthony's in the Field outside of Sydney after three Masses. In addition, after the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday, they delivered an address and responded to questions about VOTF in the states and its relationship to Church issues in Australia. They found an energized, aware, and informed group. Generally, there is concern about the future of the Church and genuine hope that it will survive and thrive.

(Watch this space in August for more details about the New Zealand and Sydney efforts to organize.)

VOTF CENTRAL

VOTF SE Wisconsin
Reported by Terry Ryan

Greetings from Southeast Wisconsin! We celebrated the first anniversary of our affiliate on June 17, 2003 with a special liturgy of healing at St. Benedict the Moor Church that included liturgical dance and a communal blessing of those who've suffered from any form of abuse. We also collected money to offset some of the travel expenses for SNAP members who were planning to travel to St. Louis for their convention. Our Prayerful Voice coordinator Roberta Manley is to be thanked, as well as our presider Fr. John Lukaszewicz and homilist Rosemary Mutulo.

Following the liturgy Michael Crosby, OFMCap, gave a talk entitled "Reconciliation and VOTF: Is It Possible?" He spoke about the power dynamics that are deeply engrained in institutional structures, stemming from clericalism and patriarchy. Fr. Crosby provided a frank and honest assessment of the sin of systemic abuse and the difficulty of addressing the structural imbalance of power.

Although we do not plan to have a formal regional meeting during the month of July, we will remain engaged in promoting state legislation that will make clergy mandatory reporters of abuse, that will raise the statute of limitations for both civil and criminal cases, and that will hold supervisors accountable if they knew or should have known that someone under their supervision had sexual contact with a child.

Even though this bill will help prevent future sexual abuse of our children, it does nothing for past victim-survivors who have suffered greatly and deserve justice. We believe that the state and the Church are obligated to ensure accountability so that victim-survivors receive restorative justice. To that end, we've met with the Chancellor of the Milwaukee Archdiocese to discuss a proposal we drafted on restorative justice; and we will urge legislators to set up a statewide system to provide support, healing and justice to adults who were sexually abused as children.

Our Steering Committee will be busy during the month of July developing goals for the next year and meeting with individuals who are interested in assuming leadership positions. I've announced my intention to step down as Coordinator and am seeking someone to assume that role. As always, we keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. May the God of compassion and new life continue to shower us with the blessing of one another's presence in this struggle to reform our Church.

VOTF Chicago, IL
Reported by Terry O'Connor

LOCAL NEWS in Chicago, Joliet and Rockford Dioceses:

VOICE OF THE FAITHFUL EXPANDS it's northern border in the Archdiocese of Chicago with a start up group at OUR LADY OF HUMILITY located in ZION, ILLINOIS.
DIALOGUE TEAM SELECTED FROM FOUR CORNERS OF THE CHICAGO DIOCESE. Representing the VOTF Laity in the Chicago Diocese will be three women and two men from each direction of the compass. Details to follow.
LAITY TAKES A MAJOR STEP IN THE ROCKFORD DIOCESE toward renewal with Bishop Thomas Doran and the announcement of a VOTF- Coordinator in the Rockford Diocese. Additional plans include Parish Affiliates in the regions of Aurora, Cary, Elgin, St Charles, Geneva, Sterling, and throughout the city of Rockford. If you know a friend or relative living in any of these areas who is interested in changing the way the Church acts during our lifetime, please have them visit the votf.org web site and contact any of us on the Illinois team.
THE JOLIET DIOCESE LEADS IN NEW INTEREST in Hinsdale at St. Isaac's with a top-down building project as if the crisis were over. "Building something seems to be a strategy for ignoring the elephant in our living room," stated one parishioner.
Strong interest from Elmhurst at Immaculate Conception Parish has also surfaced with volunteers working toward connecting parishes for a larger VOTF presence in the Joliet Diocese.
The Joliet Diocese is in need of a Regional Coordinator to effectively connect parishioners. The Elmhurst area is one and Joliet (the city) is the other location where individual members and Parish Affiliates could be assisted greatly with additional Region Coordinators. If you know a friend or relative from the diocese who might be interested, please have them contact any of us on the Illinois team.
THIS E-MAIL NETWORK CONNECTS TO OVER 125 DIFFERENT PARISHES and has just recently expanded to accept an additional 3,000 e-mail addresses in our local network. If you are interested in being a Regional Coordinator, Parish Affiliate or VOTF member we have an e-mail slot with your name on it. We could sure use your help.
Peace be with all of us.

VOTF EAST

VOTF Washington, DC Metro
Reported by Evelyn Mercantini and written by Bill Casey

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church in Arlington, VA and the DC Metro affiliate of VOTF hosted a Healing Mass on Thursday evening, June 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the church. Fr. Joe Nagle, Franciscan Mission Service, and Fr. Len Tuozzuolo, pastor of OLQP, con-celebrated the Mass. It was the first healing Mass celebrated in the Arlington Diocese devoted to survivors and others angered by the sexual abuse crisis within the Church and the lack of responsiveness by our Church leaders to the scandal. The hope that we share is that this service will set an example for other parishes in the diocese to reach out to their faith communities and not hide within the religious hierarchy. It is likely that some survivors of abuse, regardless of where the abuse occurred, may now live in the Arlington area.

In addition to the host community at OLQP, representatives from SNAP and three other DC- area VOTF affiliates were in attendance. The congregation of approximately 150 listened to the strong words from Frs. Joe and Len as well as the scripture readings and homilies. They called on clergy to face their responsibilities to the survivors. Evelyn Mercantini related the commitment of the DC Metro VOTF affiliate to support the survivors and continue efforts to promote the healing process. In a symbol of communal healing, the group walked in single file to the altar, dipped a finger in a bowl of water, crossed themselves and then turned to make a small cross on the forehead of the person behind them.

After the Mass, a reception was held to afford an opportunity to share fellowship and upcoming VOTF/SNAP activities. In all, this gathering was a wonderful witness to the Gospel message, one in sharp contrast to the public witness within our Church this week - the resignation of the chairman of the National Review Board appointed only a year ago to oversee the Bishops' implementation of the charter to protect children from abuse, and the Bishops' semiannual meeting in St. Louis, in which the sexual abuse issue was not even on the original agenda until yet another kind of episcopal scandal broke on Monday.

The Healing Mass was covered by the Washington Post. It can be accessed at www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles.

VOTF Greater Philadelphia, PA
Reported by Marianna Sullivan

A quorum of members-in-good-standing of Voice of the Faithful of Greater Philadelphia adopted proposed by-laws for the affiliate, approved incorporation as a nonprofit organization and elected temporary officers who will serve until January 2004 at the affiliate's June general meeting on June 3.

The temporary officers are Bud Bretschneider, chair; Mary Ellen Norpel, vice chair; Walter Fox, vice chair for media relations; Brenda Hackett, treasurer; Susan Palladino, recording secretary, and Loretta Connor, corresponding secretary.

At-large delegates to the VOTF/GP Steering Committee are Eileen DiFranco, Alice O'Neill, James Plastaras, Joan Smith and Marianna Sullivan. In addition, representatives of the various committees form part of the steering committee; these committees include one for each of VOTF's three goals.

At the October general meeting of the Greater Philadelphia affiliate, permanent officers will be elected to serve terms beginning in January 2004.

Now that organizational matters have been addressed, we hope to move ahead to parish outreach throughout the archdiocese.

VOTF Northern New Jersey
Reported by Maria Cleary

In June, we were treated to a wonderful talk by Dr. Gloria Thomas of Marymount College in NYC who spoke about "The Trinity: A Model for Dialogue in the Church." Intriguing and inspiring! Another highlight of that meeting was the emergence of more brave souls who are willing to start new VOTF Affiliates, even in banned territory! Recent news about Frank Keating and Bishop O'Brien in Phoenix seems to have galvanized folks in a new way.

The biggest news for our region is the upcoming conference at Fordham University, New York, NY on November 15. Twenty-six of us from NY, NJ and CT affiliates met on June 14 on site to plan. Things are coming together in a very exciting way, and we should be able to announce speakers and topics shortly, so stay tuned. This is a very convenient location, so we hope many of our VOTF family will be able to join us for this important day. Mark the date on your calendars!

PHOTO Eileen has this This was on May 13 at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church in Little Falls, NJ at the VOTF/NNJ Affiliate monthly meeting. Approx. 260 in attendance. Photographer was Joe Barrett

VOTF West Hartford, CT
Reported by Dick Wowak

At the June meeting we began a push to re-energize the three working groups and to get EVERYONE involved in a working group of some sort. We expanded the groups to eight in number including PR, Finances, etc. We will follow up until all are involved.

Fr. Cody gave a report on the Hartford Assoc of Priests, our counterpart in the Clergy. He gave us their goals and results from their meetings with Archbishop Cronin - none as of now.

Jaye O'Donnel reported on the meeting with the Archbishop that she attended with John Ryan and Mary Ann Murray. They had four questions 1) Functioning Parish Councils, 2) Follow up to the Synod of 5 yrs ago, 3) Copy of the Bishops Charter, 4) Safe Parish Provisions. All went pretty much unanswered. Our next meeting is July 10 at St. Tim's.

VOTF South Region, Boston, MA Affiliate
Reported by John Hynes

The evening of Tuesday, June 24 saw representatives of nearly all of the VOTF affiliates in the South Region of the RCAB attending Mass at St. Gerard Majella Parish in Canton, MA. The celebrant of this Mass of the feast of St. John the Baptist was the Reverend Bernard P. McLaughlin, pastor of St. Gerard's. In the beginning of his remarks, Fr. Mac held out St. John the Baptist, the herald of Christ, as an example for all to emulate. Fr. Mac then invited all resent to participate with him in what amounted to an interactive homily. Many accepted his invitation almost immediately - resulting in a palpable sense of connectedness that dominated the evening. Mass was Followed by refreshments and brief updates from various affiliates before the final regional meeting of the season adjourned.

Many of the same VOTF representatives were in attendance again on Sunday morning, June 29 at St. Paul's in Hingham, MA. There the principal celebrant of the Mass of the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul was Bishop Lennon, interim administrator of the Boston Archdiocese. Some who spoke with Bishop Lennon appealed to him either on behalf of the survivors and/or on behalf of VOTF groups banned from meeting on their own church property. Both before and after the service VOTFers stood in solidarity with the survivor representatives who were present outside of St. Paul's.

Bishop Lennon's homily seemed somehow disconnected and stood in sharp contrast to Fr. Mac's. Bishop Lennon talked about the leaders of the early Church whose feast day it was. He pointed out that even though Sts. Peter and Paul were the recognized leaders of the Church of their day, they were not focused on their role as leaders, but rather on their mission of attracting people to the word of God. Bishop Lennon seemed totally oblivious to the irony that his, and his predecessor's, actions might have actually served to separate people from the word of God.

VOTF Fall River, MA diocese
Reported by Chris Boyd

News from around the diocese: In July, Svea Fraser from VOTF National spoke to a crowd in Falmouth on the subject of support for priests. About two weeks prior, in Mashpee, David O'Brien, professor at the College of the Holy Cross, with expertise in the history of the Catholic Church in America, offered great insights into the current challenges before the Church and the laity to about 100 attendees.
I'm told by Lloyd Becket (papa@alum.mit.edu) of North Falmouth Parish Voice, and Jim Moroney (BMor456556@aol.com) of Mashpee Parish Voice that these two affiliate groups have decided to retain their independent local affiliations, while developing closer coordination so as to draw on each other's membership for mutual support of various events.
Among the successes achieved by Fall River VOTF is that of Ed Scahill of Mashpee, who in communication with his pastor has been informed that the pastor will "publish a full and complete accounting of the past fiscal year's financial report." Good news for our goals of "transparency and accountability."
Lower Cape Parish Voice continues to build bridges within their community. Offering an educational video series by Fr. Michael Himes of B.C. entitled, "The Vision of Vatican II for Today," St. Joan of Arc parish will be inviting parishioners to enjoy this series on Mondays July 7, 14, 21, 28 and August 4 at 7:00 p.m. LCPV will resume meetings at the Brewster's Lady's Library soon after the conclusion of the video series. For information, contact Patricia Clock (patriciacape@attbi.com) or Nick Armenti (NPArmenti@yahoo.com).
Nantucket's PV has been disrupted by the ban from meeting on parish property, but Sue Alex (madaket62@aol.com) is planning a new meeting this month.
Developing groups are also making progress. The South Coast Parish Voice group is growing in and around Mattapoisett and plans to affiliate in September. A small coordinating group has been meeting in recent weeks. They expect to have their first big meeting to welcome all in early September. For information, contact Bob Gormley (rgormley@bestweb.net) or Ann Bruno (wsbamb@aol.com). On June 26th, the group welcomed Helene and Bill Doyle, from Falmouth, to share how their group developed and what challenges may lie ahead. Bill and Helene have also spoken with other fledgling groups including the Mid-Cape. Marion Gallagher (marjack@attbi.com) and George Perkins (perkinsgm@attbi.com) have been the most active here. Anyone in the Dennis-Yarmouth and surrounding towns who could offer support or would like to attend, let Marion and George know. Without access to parish bulletins, it's hard to get the word out. As yet, we have many members around the western part of the diocese, but no new parish voices, so members from Attleboro to Easton, Norton to Taunton, send Chris Boyd (JCBoydVOTF@aol.com) an email if you'd like to reach others in your area.

By way of a diocesan overview, the Bishop-elect Coleman of Fall River has instructed all pastors to ban meetings of VOTF on Church property until further notice. Parish bulletins are not to include VOTF PV notices, and there is to be no formal contact with our organization. These policies are deemed temporary until the new bishop has time to assess the situation more fully at some future date. These policies are a concern to many member parishioners. In an effort to avoid an escalated exchange in the media, as is the general desire of leadership from within the diocese, as well as in order to attempt to begin constructive communications and cooperation with our new bishop, we have attempted to engage the bishop-elect through an intermediary. What will be the fruit of these efforts remains to be seen, but we are hopeful. One month has passed since the original communication in this effort. Although the bishop-elect is no doubt busy with matters relating to his installation, we are hopeful that the interests of the hundreds of VOTF members under his pastoral care will also be a priority. In the meantime, VOTF members have avoided making a public issue of our expulsion from parish premises and have sent a warm letter of congratulations to Bishop-elect Coleman. We are beginning preparations for our delegation to meet with the Bishop or his representative(s) in the coming months.

Winchester, Mass. Area VOTF
Reported by Bob Morris

In June, we welcomed two speakers. On June 2, Patricia DeLeeuw, an Associate Academic Vice President for Faculties at Boston College, and a Church historian, brought home to us that most of the Church structures that we take for granted have evolved and changed over time. On June 16, Professor David O'Brien, Director of the Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture at the College of the Holy Cross, presented an overview of the Church crisis, and a model for where we all might go from here. Approximately 100 persons attended each talk.

In June, several members of our group - Mary Ellen Falcione, Anna-Marie Ferraro, Clare Keane, Bob Morris, and Helen Quinn - were elected by parishioners to the St. Eulalia's Parish Council (the Parish which hosts our meetings). These members join several other VOTF members (Eva Arnott, Mary Deyst, Christina Hurley) already on the Council.

On June 23, Suzy Nauman, Parish Voice Assistant Chair, and a member of our group, reported on the conference of the U.S. Bishops in St. Louis, as well as the conference of the Survivors' Network of those Abuse by Priests (S.N.A.P.). Suzy was part of the VOTF team attending both conferences. Suzy described for us the stark contrast between the indifference shown to VOTF by many bishops, and the gratitude to VOTF by those attending the S.N.A.P. conference. Suzy's account made clear that the work of VOTF in support of survivors is vital and must be continued.

Finally, at our meeting on June 30, on the eve of the appointment of Bishop O'Malley, we received an unexpected and most welcome visit from Father Hugh Burns, a Dominican priest from Jersey City, New Jersey, and a commentator on National Public Radio. In brief remarks, Father Hugh exhorted us to continue our work.

Books for your Short List

The Liberation of the Laity: In Search of an Accountable Church by Paul Lakeland - What have the laity been doing lo these many years? Professor Lakeland offers a unique theological reflection on the state of the laity in a scholarly and readable narrative that moves from "How We Got To Where We Are" to "Where We Go From Here." Lakeland considers the thinking and impact of key theologians on Vatican II and its aftermath and looks closely at the two priesthoods of clergy and of laity. He finds that the present condition of the laity is one of "structural oppression" and considers how this condition might be overcome.

Lakeland's study furthers an understanding of the documents of Vatican II as these pertain to a postmodern age and optimistically illumines prospects for a healthier Church.

Professor Lakeland is professor and chair of the Dept. of Religious Studies at Fairfield University, CT (Link to talk in Mass.) He was the keynote speaker at the June 5, 2003 Boston, Mass. conference, "Awakening to the Spirit, Envisioning the Future."

Sacred Silence by Donald Cozzens - The author of the best-selling, award-winner The Changing Face of the Priesthood continues to shatter the silence around Roman Catholicism. In Sacred Silence, Cozzens extends an invitation to understand the Church culture that harbored clergy abuse of children and its cover-up. He observes a feudal Church in anxious struggle with the modern world and dependent on denial, legalism, control and secrecy. His insights rest on "honest, humble dialogue about issues facing the priesthood and the Church itself" without which the very mission of the Church is threatened. Cozzens' own priesthood informs his compassionate voice and adds much-needed depth to an understanding of how best to support this struggling ministry.

The book's dedication also informs - "In memory of Bishops P. Francis Murphy and Raymond A. Lucker. Men of faith and courage who dared to break the silence."

Fr. Cozzens is a visiting associate professor of Religious Studies at John Carroll University in University Heights, Ohio.

Events, Etc.

VOTF National

Parish Voice Tool Kits - Printed materials for Parish Voice Affiliates including the VOTF Tool Kit, the VOTF brochure and VOTF business cards may be ordered from Kwik Kopy Printing in Houston, Texas by calling 1(800) 304-5945; by e-mail at kwikcopy13@aol.com; or via the Web at www.kwikkopy.com/1365/votf1.cfm. The brochure features the VOTF logo in color and may be customized with the contact info of your PV, a prayer, etc. Materials can be previewed at the Kwik Kopy website. Kwik Kopy Printing is owned and operated by Peter Evans, the father of Parish Voice Coordinator in MA and Regional Coordinator for VOTF in Texas, Emilie Gilbert.

Five Steps for a Better Harvest (NMR indicates - "No meetings required")

TALK to us - working/focus groups, ad hoc committees, Council gatherings, Executive Committee, Trustees et al., might send in meeting dates and places.
SEND photos of your group, your activities, your church - anything VOTF related. NMR
BE a reporter. We need coverage on legislative activity around the country (mandatory reporting laws, statutes of limitation work, etc.); bishop dialogue - if any, what's happening; Council meetings coverage (pick a month, a quarter, a year, a decade); events/talks - upcoming and recaps.
INTRODUCE us - to your parish priest, your bishop. What are they doing, not doing? NMR
ADD your two cents - constructive criticism is INVITED. If In the Vineyard isn't working, is missing something, is useless - we need to hear it. Your suggestions for change, additions, deletions are truly appreciated. NMR

Print Media Coverage - Be sure to check the website at www.votf.org for reprints and links to recent interviews with Jim Post and articles on VOTF in Newsweek, Commonweal, National Catholic Reporter and St. Anthony Messenger, AND the Herald Sun in Melbourne!, to name but a few.

VOTF Witness at USCCB conference, St. Louis, Mo. Excerpts from "Reflections on US Catholic Bishops' Conference" Steven A. Krueger, Executive Director June 25, 2003. Read the full text here.

The middle-American city of St. Louis was a study in contrasts during last week's U.S. Catholic Bishops' Conference (USCCB).

Contrast 1 - The Agenda
In Dallas last year, the entire Conference was focused on the clergy sexual abuse crisis. In the days preceding the St. Louis Conference, the crisis was not even on the agenda. Only after the bishops were pressed by the press and the public did they insert a presentation on the topic for Saturday morning - which they then ended early.

Contrast 2 - Task versus Ministry
Last year, the bishops were remorseful in their verbal response to the crisis. This year, the bishops used language that referred to the crisis as an "issue." Their language and actions portrayed the crisis as a task to be completed, rather than a ministry that will define the Church in this century. Tasks are something you put on a list and mark off when completed. Ministry is a part of your being, strengthened by dialogue and the need to communicate to everyone, often. What some bishops do not understand is that the Church and the public demand that this crisis be treated as a ministry - a ministry for justice and healing for the victim/survivors of clergy sexual abuse and for the entire Church itself.

Contrast 3 - The Tone
Last year in Dallas, the bishops spoke out of sincerity and pain. This year, some suggested that the crisis was being exaggerated, while others said that everything that could be done was being done. Yet, many lay Catholics and victim/survivors do not agree with this assessment - as we know from attending the SNAP Conference and from our own regular experiences with victim/survivors and lay Catholics around the country.

Contrast 4 - The USCCB Conference and the SNAP Conference
While we were not allowed into the USCCB Conference, and the media was invited to attend only a portion of that meeting, we VOTF representatives were invited and welcomed to the SNAP Conference. On Friday evening, we listened to the stories of victim/survivors, many of which focused on the re-abuse these survivors have suffered at the hands of the Church, as they seek justice from the Church. These courageous people are telling us what is difficult to hear, but knowing them has brought great consolation to us. One has to wonder what transformation of the heart might have taken place for some bishops if they had been there.

Contrast 5 - Ownership of the crisis versus ownership of the solution
In Dallas and in Washington, the bishops indicated they would take ownership - accountability - of the problem in the preamble to their Dallas Charter and in calling for fraternal accountability in Washington. In St. Louis, the bishops sidestepped their accountability by directing our attention to their solutions. In this way the bishops presented themselves as having everything under control. However, the "solution" to the crisis - which occurred under the watch of many of these bishops - starts with their accountability. In taking exclusive ownership of the solution, the bishops only contribute to the systemic failures of the past. The solution must include the voices of laity, survivors, and clergy as well - it is our Church, too. Unfortunately, neither survivors nor representative laity was invited to attend, let alone participate in these discussions.

The laity must step forward and state their conviction that nothing should take precedence over a pastoral response to this crisis. As followers of Christ we are called to be leaders in promoting truth, justice, and healing. All within the Church must make an unwavering commitment to reflect the face of Jesus at every turn down this long road. Let us keep our bishops in our prayers as they find the courage to meet the challenges that face us all and that we must solve together.

VOTF East

This party will be fun and casual with a great DJ, cash bar and dancing. Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door; families $25.

June 7 Boston, MA VOTF Conference - Over 300 VOTF members, representing 45 affiliates in the Boston Archdiocese, gathered on June 7 for a Boston VOTF Conference. Titled, "Awakening to the Spirit, Envisioning the Future," the conference was held on the eve of Pentecost. The theme of the conference was "Our Vision for Our Parishes & the Archdiocese of Boston in 2005, And Steps We Can Take to Make Our Vision a Reality."

The day began with opening prayers developed for the occasion by the Prayerful Voice committee led by Sr. Betsy Conway. VOTF President Jim Post delivered a rousing kick-off address on "What We, and the New Archbishop of Boston, Face in our Church." Keynote speaker Paul Lakeland followed, with moving excerpts from his new book, Liberation of the Laity: In Search of An Accountable Church.

Ten action-planning workshops made up the core of the conference. Topics, which had been determined by affiliate responses to a pre-conference questionnaire, included "Justice for Survivors," "Protecting our Children," "Fostering Collaboration Between the Laity and Clergy," "Financial Control and Decision-Making," "Lay Education," and "Renewing Local Faith Communities." Talented VOTF volunteers served as the facilitators for the workshops. The action plans developed in the workshops will be published in a post-conference report. Conference participants also provided feedback on a draft vision statement, which had also been developed based on responses to the pre-conference questionnaire.

A Franciscan to lead Boston, MA Archdiocese - see extensive coverage on our website at www.votf.org.

Wellesley, MA - JUNE: no working group meetings. Tues. JULY 15 and Tues. AUG. 12: 7:30-9:30 for all working groups at St. John the Evangelist Church in Wellesley, MA. SEPT: No monthly or plenary meetings scheduled. OCT. 14: Monthly working group first meeting; to be held the second Tuesday of each month. MONTHLY PLENARY: the fourth Tuesday of each month; first meeting OCT. 28 will include our 12 Western Region Affiliates: St. Bernard's, Our Lady Help of Christians, St Ignatius, Natick Affiliate, St. Joseph's, St. Zepherin's, St. Mary's, St. Anselm's, People's Promise (Belmont), St. Jeremiah's, St. Paul's, St. John's. Contact: jfmcconville@attbi.com.

A Musical Tribute - On September 28, 2003 at 5:00 pm, a chamber music concert will be performed at the Edward M. Pickman Concert Hall, 27 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA. Admission to the concert will be free. Concert attendees are asked to make a good will offering to support SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests).

The program will be presented by John Ferrillo, Elizabeth Ostling and Elita Kang of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Carol Rodland of the New England Conservatory, and Hugh Hinton of the Longy School of Music. Attendees will hear works by Bach, Schumann, DeBussy, Barber, Loefflre and Messiaen. PLEASE HELP TO MAKE THIS EVENT A SUCCESS! For further information please click here or contact Steve Sheehan at: sheehan1777@aol.com

VOTF Tri-State Conference Planned for November 15, 2003 at Fordham Prep/University in New York City, NY. Twenty-six of us from NY, NJ, and CT affiliates met on June 14 on site in order to plan the event. Speakers and topics will be publicized shortly so we ask the entire VOTF family (and friends) to watch this space for upcoming details. Meanwhile, mark your calendars!

The Institute of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry at Boston College is offering several courses through its summer program, which might be of particular interest to the members of VOTF. For more information call 617 552-8440 or 800-487-1167, e-mail irepm@bc.edu or visit www.bc.edu/irepm.html. Among the courses being offered is "The Parish as Covenant: A Call to Pastoral Partnership."

Well-known writer Paul Wilkes is directing "The Boston Pastoral Summit," October 6-8, 2003 (Monday-Wednesday) at the Marriott Copley Place, Boston, MA. "A Time of Rebirth and Renewal" is the theme for this Lilly Endowment-sponsored national church conference. The Pastoral Summit conference will bring together both Protestant and Catholic pastors and lay leaders for three days of pertinent workshops, inspirational worship, and powerful keynote speakers who will tackle key issues all churches face. The emphasis at the Pastoral Summit is how to make each local church "the best it possibly can be."

The Boston conference comes on the heels of two other well-attended Pastoral Summit gatherings held this year in San Antonio in April and Indianapolis in June. The Pastoral Summit provides-by one definition-the most diverse groups of Christian pastors, staff and lay leaders ever assembled in America.

"What came through loud and clear in the resounding success of our first two Pastoral Summits this year was that Catholics and Protestants too seldom get the chance to talk and learn from each other about their local churches," said Paul Wilkes, best-selling author and founder/project direct of Pastoral Summit. "This is not surface talk but deep talk about what works, how new people can be reached, what we can learn from each other's traditions and practices, how faith can be deepened, and how the local church can radiate light and hope into its community."

JIM POST will be one of the featured speakers at a workshop entitled, "The Flowering of Lay Initiatives: Voices Rising from the Wilderness". There will be an opportunity to share VOTF's mission and vision in a specially planned workshop of our making. We can also promote the tri-state (NY/NJ/CT) conference New York on November 15th.

Please log on to www.pastoralsummit.org for more information, but note that not all the Boston-specific workshops are listed in the program yet. Information will be sent to area Parish Affiliate coordinators, as well as being posted on the website. Opportunities for VOTF input abound, and volunteers are needed for help at the conference itself. Please contact Svea Fraser at 781 237-7560, or sveafraser@comcast.net for more information.

VOTF Central

Chicago, IL VOTF Action for Renewal/Voice of the Faithful is supporting a series of discussions of interest to Catholics. The second meeting focused on the role of the bishops in the Church crisis. The program, "Journey to Integrity," is ongoing and informal. It is held at St. Thomas Becket Parish Hall, Mt. Prospect. For information about future gatherings, call 847-690-9970. Terry O'Connor

Dr. Jim Muller will be in Cincinnati, Ohio on Friday, August 8, 2003. Dr. Muller will meet with the leadership of the Cincinnati and Dayton VOTF affiliates' leadership teams. Cincinnati and Dayton VOTF will host a talk, open to the public, by Dr. Muller at 7 p.m. on August 8 at St. Francis DeSales Church on Madison Road in Cincinnati. More information is available on the VOTF Cincinnati Coordinating Committee website at cincinnativotf@earthlink.net or e-mail Mary Buchert at buchert@zoomtown.com.

Letters to the Editor

(Below are only two of the many e-mails expressing concern for Patrick McSorley, a well-known survivor in the Boston, MA area. These two messages plot the course of VOTF responses. The outcome speaks for itself - Patrick was released from the hospital recently and appears to be doing well.)

"With so much focus on national news this week, let us all take a few minutes to pray for survivor Patrick McSorley who was found a few days ago in a Boston river and is fighting for his life at Mass. General Hospital. As most of you know, he has been a wonderful spokesperson for the survivors and a real hero."

"Are you all aware of the vigil for Patrick on Sunday (6/22) at the Cathedral (Boston, MA) 10:30 a.m. Please come for him and his family. Thanks."

Also in this month's batch:

"What a great newsy In the Vineyard update for June. My prayers will go with the reps. to St. Louis...and the story on the Wilson/Fallon hospitality takes me all the way back to the travels of Paul and how the Church was begun...guess we could call it 're-rooting' the Church. Thanks for all the information." Suzanne Battos

"Sorry to learn of the impending departure of Frank Keating from the review board. Another good man lost to the insidious dealings of the dark side of the Church. Another reason to keep fighting to make the church what it was intended to be. Can you imagine that Jesus had this horror in mind when He named Peter as the rock on whom He would build His Church? How did everything get this way - from a simple dinner with the twelve apostles to this? Your work on behalf of all Catholics is truly impressive. Know that your efforts are appreciated. Thank you."

"In the latest issue Roberta Monson is correct. The ONLY way to get the attention of the senior clergy is to withhold money. I have written of this before. We should organize a single Sunday when no one contributes. Personally I have stopped giving at my church even though I find no fault locally. I have written my bishop and the Pope to tell them of my actions and my promise to restart my contributions when most of the bishops involved have been removed. It is non-negotiable. In fact perhaps one Sunday a month I go to a Protestant Church for the sake of my spirit. Lets pick a day and organize now." Al Galli

"I was so sorry to read about Brendan Gunning leaving the Roman Catholic Church. What was done to him was inexcusable, but it seems to me that the whole Church is suffering for the sins of a few misguided men who unfortunately happen to be priests. Most of our priests are good and moral men. Hopefully Brendan will find peace in the Episcopal Church (founded by Henry VIII, who had a few skeletons in his closet, too).

The Catholic Church isn't the only denomination with clergy who have committed abuses. Acid (hatred) causes much damage to the vessel (person) it's stored in. Let's all build our Holy Catholic Church in spite of the damage some individuals have done. I myself am proud to be a member and will continue to support and pray for it. Christ forgave sinners - that's why He died on the cross. I will continue to pray for the abuse victims. God Bless." Peg

"I should like to respond to Brendan Gunning, if it is possible. Here in Australia we have had a great scandal involving the Governor General. He is the Queens Representative and holds the highest office in the land but has not the power of the prime minister who appoints him. Archbishop Hollingsworth, a member of the Church of England, the Church Brendan has joined, was found to have covered up sexual abuse for years and was accused himself. He compounded the felony by intimating that one of the victims initiated the affair. A child of 14! Suicide followed.

The resulting wave of hurt and indignation finally forced the resignation of a man enjoying the trappings of office. The obvious Church /State conflict will never be repeated. We await a new G.G.

Let me suggest to Brendan that humans are fallible and seeking refuge elsewhere is not the answer - stay and fight for reform. Our faith is like my diamond, it has had three settings and though their quality may vary the purity of the stone remains the same." Ann Bristow, N. S .W., Australia

"I am a strong supporter of VOTF, and have kept up on the information forwarded to me on my computer. I have been on a spiritual quest as a Catholic for some time now ever since so much of real life experience seems completely disconnected from the 'laws cast in stone' from Rome. That plus my knowledge of Church history repeatedly confirms Lord Acton's right-on quotation regarding the corruption of absolute power.

I live in Goshen, Connecticut, and was searching for a VOTF group that might be located nearby. Then, alas, I saw where the bishops in Connecticut (including other New England states) in Oct. '02 banned VOTF meetings on Church property. At that time Bishop William Tori of Connecticut said that VOTF threatens to tear the Church apart by promoting private dissenting opinions. I cannot believe the warped attitudes of some members of the hierarchy! Many thanks and keep up the good work." Ginny Stancs
(Note: We sent Ginny CT contact info.)

Below is an excerpt of a letter written by VOTF Brooklyn, NY members Anne and Ed Wilson to the Washington Times following that paper's negative editorial remarks regarding VOTF. The final letter comments on recent Washington Post coverage of the bishops' conference in St. Louis.

"Responding to your editorial ("A Few Bad Shepherds," June 18, 2003): We are members of the steering committee of Brooklyn Voice of the Faithful. We find ourselves strongly in accord with your critical views about the resignation of Gov. Frank Keating as chair of the National Review Board, established in 2002 by the U.S Catholic Bishops. You call 'sad and inexplicable' the fact that 'many bishops still act like the answer to priest sex scandal is more covering up.' We absolutely agree.

However, we also find it sad and inexplicable that your answer to Voice of the Faithful's efforts to address this scandal is to smear us with unsupported and slanderous accusations. You say we are comprised of 'leading dissenters on church teaching' about a number of sexual/gender issues. We challenge you to support that spurious allegation. And you call us a 'faction of rabble-rousers.'

If this is your usual mode of discourse, we are surprised you object to Gov. Keating's choice of words.

Voice of the Faithful is a nationwide group of centrist Catholic lay people formed last year in Boston in immediate and direct (not 'ostensible') response to the scandal and Cardinal Law's failure to deal adequately with it. Our goals are to support survivors of priest sexual abuse, to support priests of integrity, and to seek change in the authority structure of the church to address the misuse of power that you decry.

Our beliefs have been held by Bishop Daily of Brooklyn to be in accord with Church teaching. If you wish to know our beliefs, consult our Web site.

We support Catholic moral standards. Among those standards is one of the Ten Commandments: 'Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.'" Anne and Ed Wilson

Additional comments on the same Washington Times article:
"I see some good news in this attack. If we were not becoming more and more influential, inspired by the Holy Spirit, these apologists for those who have committed treacherous deeds would not even be acknowledging us.

So while response is in order, so is some celebrating for our continuing focus on our mission and goals and its attractiveness to so many Catholics. I hope we will retain that focus. As the hymn says "Here I am Lord, is it I Lord? I have heard you calling in the night, etc". We are going, the Spirit is leading and we are holding His people in our hearts. It is a great honor for me to be in this movement. KFCC, indeed!" Bill McQueeney, St. Anselm Parish Voice, Sudbury-Framingham, MA

"Indeed, we are not a "radical" leftist group, we are not dissenters and we most certainly are not rabble-rousers. We are the Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Greeters, Religious Education Instructors, altar servers, choir members and members of parish and financial councils, among other things. Our dedication to the Church of Jesus Christ, our Church, is unflagging and unquestionable. Such ad hominem attacks upon faithful Catholics is reprehensible and cries out for retraction and apology." Steve Sheehan

"After all we've heard about the leadership of the church, I am grateful there are still 'revolutionaries in their pews.' The alternative would be empty pews. We, the Church, need to come together to resolve our crisis, restore trust, learn from the past, and grow in faith and love." Ann Zouvelekis, member of Voice of the Faithful, Northern NJ Affiliate

"In today's Washington Post editorial section, E. J. Dionne, Jr. quotes Scott Appleby, a professor of religious history at Notre Dame who said, 'We're in the month 18 of the most serious crisis in the history of the American Catholic Church, and we have yet to hear from the leading figures in the Church about how we should make moral, ethical, theological and spiritual sense of what happened.' Instead, at the Bishops' meeting in St. Louis, we hear quite different messages from Church leaders.

As reported in a story on page 2 of today's Post, the Pope's ambassador to the U.S. said. 'Some real problems within the Church have been magnified to discredit the moral authority of the Church.'

Bishop Gallante of Dallas, Texas said that whenever the clergy show 'feet of clay, it's an opportunity for people who don't like what we teach to say we're hypocrites.' Bishop Sullivan of Brooklyn said that the scandal 'has distorted the image of the Church' and that 'nobody knows the real story of what the Church has done' for the poor, the sick, and the homeless. Cardinal George of Chicago observed that the bishops have not received credit for removing all past abusers from ministry and that while there's still work to be done, "it's procedural. What we promised to do a year ago, we've done.'

I wonder what letters St. Paul would write to the faith communities of today if he visited them the way he did in the early days of the Church. I for one would want to be in South Arlington rather than in St. Louis." Bill Casey

July Commentary

Maria Coffey is from VOTF Regional New York City, NY. Recently, she shared these thoughts with VOTF leadership. Maria's words resonated with so many that we asked to share them with Vineyard readers.

As I read the e-mails tracking our developing organization, and experience similar situations "outside of Boston," I keep thinking of a book I read years ago (title and author long gone from my memory). It was based on the simple premise that organizational development is similar in many ways to human development.

As I remember it:

An organization is born (Ah! the wonder of this creation - it's all so new, so unique; the joy of learning everything from "scratch"; needs are defined, rudimentary and limited ~ it's so small!).
Then the organization experiences youth (It falls, gets bruised, gets up again; it learns at a tremendous pace; it tentatively tries out different things; it moves toward organizing itself; it's bigger, a little more opinionated; more difficult to control ~ it's growing up!).
Next comes the adolescent organization (this is cranky time; everything is reevaluated; emotions run high; basic values and ideals are rethought, fought over; some people leave; some become recommitted ~ and control? What control?!).
Then there is the semi-quiescent stage of maturity (the organization knows who it is, what it's all about; it has gained wisdom and respect; it is confident in its goals and the methods of attaining them~ the need for imposing control is a thing of the past - it's a comfortable well-oiled machine).
And finally, as with all humans, there is death or (alleluia!) rebirth. (Some organizations outlive their usefulness and disappear. And some build on the tremendous learning that has taken place and, through introspection and a willingness to change, emerge stronger, perhaps looking a bit different, but basically intact and energized.)

I know this is a simplistic analogy but perhaps if we look at VOTF as going through organizational stages that are natural and expected, it might help us feel less frustrated. Hope this helps someone!