Bishop Shares Memo to Priests of the Diocese with the Faithful

Friday, 22 February 2013 17:00

Bishop Provost wishes to inform the Faithful of the Diocese of the following memo sent to his priests on the occasion of the recent lawsuit. February 22, 2013 The Feast of the Chair of St. Peter To:      The Priests of the Diocese of Lake Charles From:   The Most Reverend Glen John Provost, D.D.            Bishop of Lake Charles The Diocese of Lake Charles has been notified of a lawsuit filed against the Archdiocese of New Orleans, along with the Vatican, the Diocese of Lake Charles and a former cleric who resigned from the Diocese approximately twenty (20) years ago.  The Diocese of Lake Charles offers its prayers for healing and reconciliation to all parties involved. I want each and every person employed or associated with the Diocese of Lake Charles, and especially our priests and our religious, to know that I am deeply and genuinely concerned for the individuals in this matter.  You and your parishioners must be assured that those in my administration and I have always cooperated fully and will continue to do so in the future with law enforcement officials and will report any allegations of abuse of a minor to the proper civil authorities.  Although the lawsuit relates to alleged events in the past (1980s), the claims have a current day impact on our efforts to care for the spiritual needs and welfare of Christians and on the greater public. Our primary concern is for the spiritual lives of our parishioners and to extend the love of Christ and His message of grace and sacrifice to all.  If you are aware of any individual in need of spiritual support and pastoral care, do not hesitate to offer your help, and my help, at any time.  I pray that our efforts in the Diocese of Lake Charles are continued with renewed vigor and enthusiasm to help all of those in need.  I pray that your faith, love and commitment to Christ and the fulfillment of that spiritual relationship through your good deeds and sacrifice continue to shine upon all. I pray and trust that you will gather strength from Our Lord and carry forward our message of Christ the Savior.