Fr John Corapi has Announced in a Video Message that he is Leaving the Priesthood

[debraran]

In all the statements and stories I have seen, the only thing I have seen in regards to laicization is from the statement from Corapi’s religious order:

The SOLT will do all within its power to assist Fr. Corapi if he desires to seek a dispensation from his rights and obligations as a priest and as a professed member of the SOLT.

Thus, I would not presume anything at this point. We simply do not know.

I think this part was confusing too…
SOLT received a letter from Fr. Corapi, dated June 3, 2011, indicating that, because of the physical, emotional and spiritual distress he has endured over the past few years, he could no longer continue to function as a priest or a member of the SOLT.

 

[surfinpure]

Mr. Voris,

How much money do you make by attacking our Bishops?

People have the right to defend Holy Mother Church.

You have the freedom to attack her. Please do not worry about our Bishops bringing down our Church from within.

Matthew 16:18

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

I’ve personally heard Mr. Voris attack the Bishops (yes, using a nasty TONE and all) a number of times. As in, to the point that I stopped finding him credible a long time ago.

 

[Elizabeth502]

Has it yet been addressed on this thread (if so, I can’t find it, I apologize) or elsewhere, that EWTN has suffered a withdrawal of donations because of their refusal to air his prerecorded tapes?

(It may be just coincidence that they have a pledge drive right now; I just wanted to know if there was a direct connection.)

 

[surfinpure]

Thanks for this. It pretty much sums it up. Keep praying.

This whole affair has become a circus. Enough with the division of Corapi supporters vs. Church supporters. These arguments become emotional and inevitably lose focus. This leads to speculation and prognosticating and uncharitable remarks. Instead, I think it’s important that we just look at what we do know, based on public facts:

1. Father Corapi was suspended from his public ministry pending outcome of the investigation.
2. Father Corapi had already secured non-disclosure agreements with his employees, prior to this situation emerging.
3. The investigation requires taking depositions of potential witnesses either supporting or contradicting the accuser.
4. After the investigation began, Father Corapi filed a lawsuit against the accuser for breach of contract, most likely sending a very strong warning shot to other employees who had also signed NDA’s.
5. The inability to secure interviews with others witnesses severely (fatally?) impaired the diocesan investigation, which now became a case of he said/she said.
6. Four months into the investigation, Father Corapi announces he is permanently removing himself from public ministry (as opposed to being “indefinitely” suspended during the investigation), thereby nullifying the investigation by SOLT.
7. Father Corapi directs followers to his new website, and declares that he is formerly known as “Father” Corapi, now the black sheepdog.
8. Father Corapi reveals that it was on the advice of his canon lawyers and his advisors (Fr. Flanagan and the retired bishop of Corpus Christie) to file the breach of contract lawsuit (most likely in anticipation of leaving the priesthood and bringing the SOLT investigation to a halt.)
9. Father Corapi complains that the deck is stacked against him, the process is too slow, he was being stonewalled by SOLT’s lawyers, and he had no choice but to premptively de-rail it,
10. Father Corapi castigates the bishops.
11. Father Corapi says follow the bishops.
12. Father Corapi says he wishes only well for his accuser.
13. Father Corapi lashes out at his accuser as a whack-job “alcoholic”.
14. Father Corapi states that the Sacramental aspect of his priesthood was miniscule, and so, his work will not be impacted by the situation in the long run.
15. Father Corapi challenges rumor-mongers to a $100,000 urine test wager, and boasts he can back it up with a check immediately, if he fails.
16. Father Corapi promises to release audio phone messages proving his accuser is unstable.
17. Father Corapi states that he is not leaving the priesthood, even though he has already conceded he does not need to perform any Sacraments (which are essential to the priesthood. In fact, the only thing he cannot leave is being a “priest”.)
18. Father Corapi says he won’t release the audio messages.
19. Skeptical followers of the situation are labeled as judgmental and cruel; it is presumed by outspoken supporters that there is no truth to the charges
20. Father Corapi (presumably?) has the power to release his other employees from their NDA’s for the sake of giving testimony to the diocese, by amending the contracts. (His lawyers might think otherwise).
21. Father Corapi has not released anyone from their NDA for this purpose, even though his innocence and his accuser’s “illness” can be corroborated under such circumstances, if true.
22. Scandalous information about his accusers begins to leak on the Internet. Speculation begins (with relative certainty) on exactly who the accuser is and their personal failings.
23. Father Corapi has still not appeared, except in audio.
24. The retired bishop of Corpus Christie advocates that his supporters turn on his successor bishop and write the papal nuncio; he applauds Father Corapi’s legal activities and opines that the canonical process is deeply flawed in most dioceses.
25. Four gentlemen supporters of Father Corapi launch an impassioned plea on YouTube that he will do the right thing and, in humble obedience, return to his community.
26. Father Corapi insists he is always a priest, still Catholic, and only looking to continue sharing his gifts in whatever forum is feasible. He promises to release un-answered letters to the investigating lawyers, as well as further clarification of what his new appellation means.

These are substantially the facts to date. Let us pray fo Father Corapi, the bishops, and his accuser, that it is always the narrow path which is taken.

 

[surfinpure]

Has it yet been addressed on this thread (if so, I can’t find it, I apologize) or elsewhere, that EWTN has suffered a withdrawal of donations because of their refusal to air his prerecorded tapes?

(It may be just coincidence that they have a pledge drive right now; I just wanted to know if there was a direct connection.)

I don’t know if it’s been discussed in this gargantuan thread, but in earlier threads (which were subsequently closed due to speculation and lack of charity) a number of posters declared that they would effectively punish EWTN for their policy and action by withdrawing their financial support.

 

[Marie5890]

Has it yet been addressed on this thread (if so, I can’t find it, I apologize) or elsewhere, that EWTN has suffered a withdrawal of donations because of their refusal to air his prerecorded tapes?

(It may be just coincidence that they have a pledge drive right now; I just wanted to know if there was a direct connection.)

Elizabeth I don’t know of exactly how many people have actually stopped their donations to EWTN due to the Fr Corapi situation and how much EWTN is hurt because of it, but I can say that EWTN normally does have their drive a few times a year. At least that has been my experience so what you are seeing could honestly just be co-insidence in timing.

It’s also very fair to say that with the weakness in the economy, they could be taken a hit. I know I have cut back on my charitable donations to various organizations.

Gas prices are high across the country (In my area close to $4 a gallon). It’s been a serious hit to the average household’s budget.

I know my own parish has seen a decrease in weekly donations. Hard financial times for every except the very rich.

 

[Marie5890]

I don’t know if it’s been discussed in this gargantuan thread, but in earlier threads (which were subsequently closed due to speculation and lack of charity) a number of posters declared that they would effectively punish EWTN for their policy and action by withdrawing their financial support.

That certainly is their choice to withdraw their financial support, but, IMO and IMO only, the idea that it’s their responsibility to “punish” EWTN means to me that they have missed completely the message of Christ that EWTN is trying to spread. Hopefully the idea of “punish” isn’t really the truest intent of their heart. That would be beyond sad. Again IMO only

Ah well…

 

[miamijoe]

Ohhh, I’ve been wondering why for the past few months my DVR hasn’t been recording any shows with “Fr. Corapi” in the title (been missing those). And recently the Sunday night Catechism has been The Great Adventure Series, which I’ve been waiting for them to reshow those. Also 50% off all his talks and DVD’s at his website. Not a bad deal for the whole Catechism set (now $125 on DVD).

 

[GraceSofia]

… the Catholic Media’s response to his actions.
The sanctimonious and self-righteous condemnation of Fr. John Corapi is frankly
disgusting.
…Well … if how these professional Catholics have ripped and derided Fr. Corapi is what
they mean by charity … then they need to go back to catechism 101.

realcatholictv.com/free/index.php?vidID=vort-2011-06-23

Thank you for posting the transcript of Mr. Voris’ talk.

I so agree that the vicious way some of the pro bloggers have gone on and on attacking Fr. Corapi is really disturbing. Where is the charity and compassion that Catholics are so famous for?

 

[surfinpure]

Thank you for posting the transcript of Mr. Voris’ talk.

I so agree that the vicious way some of the pro bloggers have gone on and on attacking Fr. Corapi is really disturbing. Where is the charity and compassion that Catholics are so famous for?

Perhaps it would be helpful to elaborate on which bloggers are being found offensive. For instance, the only blog post I found so was one by Mark Shea, which was immediately followed by an apology and an entreaty for all to pray for Fr. Corapi.

Jimmy Akin, on the other hand, dealt quite mercifully and fairly with the subject (in my opinion), though he did express the dismay so many of us feel about Fr. Corapi’s choices since the allegations were made.

I’ve also read several blogs, the names of whose authors I cannot recall, simply affirming the good character of Bishop Mulvey, whom Fr. Corapi criticized to all the world. There is certainly nothing “vicious” about defending the reputation of a good Bishop?

 

[YankeeRC]

Ohhh, I’ve been wondering why for the past few months my DVR hasn’t been recording any shows with “Fr. Corapi” in the title (been missing those). And recently the Sunday night Catechism has been The Great Adventure Series, which I’ve been waiting for them to reshow those. Also 50% off all his talks and DVD’s at his website. Not a bad deal for the whole Catechism set (now $125 on DVD).

Thank you so much! I posted a few days ago asking where the half off sale I heard someone mention was at. I was concerned it got buried in the post heap without an answer.

 

[Teelynn]

Perhaps it would be helpful to elaborate on which bloggers are being found offensive. For instance, the only blog post I found so was one by Mark Shea, which was immediately followed by an apology and an entreaty for all to pray for Fr. Corapi.

Jimmy Akin, on the other hand, dealt quite mercifully and fairly with the subject (in my opinion), though he did express the dismay so many of us feel about Fr. Corapi’s choices since the allegations were made.

I’ve also read several blogs, the names of whose authors I cannot recall, simply affirming the good character of Bishop Mulvey, whom Fr. Corapi criticized to all the world. There is certainly nothing “vicious” about defending the reputation of a good Bishop?

If I have a minute, I will dig some up for you. There is one in particular, and I cannot recall now the website, but I myself was surprised by the downright ridicule of Fr. Corapi by a You Tube video they made. Something about “two dogs”. It was supposed to be funny. I was embarassed these people were representing the Church. Couldn’t believe it was a Catholic Christian site. Whether or not people are put off by this tragedy and put off by Fr. or not, this was downright uncalled for to do to any human. Reminded me of the ridicule the MSM dished out on Sarah Palin. Kind of Saturday Night Livish. There were others, not quite as bad but bad enough IMHO.

But you are quite correct, there is nothing at all wrong with the defense of a good Bishop. In fact I think that is what we are called to do.

 

[AshleyBelle]

This whole mess has been so sad. =(

I don’t think Fr. Corapi needs to give detailed explanations or answer every single question that comes his way…But I do wish that he could give a simple, honest explanation of his decision. “Love the bishops!” while in the same breath saying such angry things about “certain bishops…” and “I’m not leaving the priesthood!” While announcing that he is leaving the priesthood? It is all so confusing, and just feels sad and wrong.

I’ve read the blogs, I watched the sattire, I watched the rebuttals and cries to leave Fr. Corapi alone…and I’ve prayed for all involved. But I think so many people feel scandalized and confused…the fruit of this whole situation has not been “bigger and better things” as promised by Fr. first announcment.

I would love to hear something official, simple, and clear from Fr. or from a church official who can explain what is really going on. We don’t need details, we don’t need to gossip one way or the other…but there is no denying that many Christians have been scandalized by these events, and are hurting both for the Church and for Fr. Corapi.

 

[surfinpure]

If I have a minute, I will dig some up for you. There is one in particular, and I cannot recall now the website, but I myself was surprised by the downright ridicule of Fr. Corapi by a You Tube video they made. Something about “two dogs”. It was supposed to be funny. I was embarassed these people were representing the Church. Couldn’t believe it was a Catholic Christian site. Whether or not people are put off by this tragedy and put off by Fr. or not, this was downright uncalled for to do to any human. Reminded me of the ridicule the MSM dished out on Sarah Palin. Kind of Saturday Night Livish. There were others, not quite as bad but bad enough IMHO.

But you are quite correct, there is nothing at all wrong with the defense of a good Bishop. In fact I think that is what we are called to do.

Thanks for clarifying, Teelynn. I hadn’t seen anything of that nature, and no need to post it on here - I take your word for it. I’m very sorry, but not surprised, to hear that some have stooped so low. It still leaves me wondering to which Catholic bloggers or other “big-name” Catholics in the pay of the Church Mr. Voris was chastising. I kind of always saw these orthodox Catholics as “sticking together,” and supporting one another in the battle for orthodoxy, not competing for limelight. I suppose that’s what puzzles me.

 

[surfinpure]

This whole mess has been so sad. =(

I don’t think Fr. Corapi needs to give detailed explanations or answer every single question that comes his way…But I do wish that he could give a simple, honest explanation of his decision. “Love the bishops!” while in the same breath saying such angry things about “certain bishops…” and “I’m not leaving the priesthood!” While announcing that he is leaving the priesthood? It is all so confusing, and just feels sad and wrong.

I’ve read the blogs, I watched the sattire, I watched the rebuttals and cries to leave Fr. Corapi alone…and I’ve prayed for all involved. But I think so many people feel scandalized and confused…the fruit of this whole situation has not been “bigger and better things” as promised by Fr. first announcment.

I would love to hear something official, simple, and clear from Fr. or from a church official who can explain what is really going on. We don’t need details, we don’t need to gossip one way or the other…but there is no denying that many Christians have been these events, and are hurting both for the Church and for Fr. Corapi.

Well said, Ashley. I think so many of us are looking to these authorities to say something clear and simple that will either put our minds to rest or let us grieve. Not understanding and having to make sense of this on our own has been the most frustrating. I don’t want to know any details; I think it’s better if we don’t. I simply want to know what’s happening and why, so that I can make peace with it and end the confusion.

 

[AshleyBelle]

Thanks for clarifying, Teelynn. I hadn’t seen anything of that nature, and no need to post it on here - I take your word for it. I’m very sorry, but not surprised, to hear that some have stooped so low. It still leaves me wondering to which Catholic bloggers or other “big-name” Catholics in the pay of the Church Mr. Voris was chastising. I kind of always saw these orthodox Catholics as “sticking together,” and supporting one another in the battle for orthodoxy, not competing for limelight. I suppose that’s what puzzles me.

I think the video was singling out Mark Shea and Jimmy Aikin from their blog posts. …Although nothing in the video even began to address their points. Seriously, accusing these men of being “too closely tied” to the “bad” bishops??? Ad hominem abounds…It would have been much better for that video to address the posts rather than attacking the bloggers.

It just feels like people are turning against each other over all of this, and it’s terrible! You have Catholics who love Fr. Corapi but are just sort of shell shocked…You have people defending any attempt at logically assessing the situation as personally attacking “their guy” and now we have Catholic apologists attacking and accusing other apologists of getting “fat bellies” from writing in favor of “the wrong side?”

Like I said…this is just sad, and we all need to pray for Fr. Corapi, for the Church, and for one another.

 

[miamijoe]

Forgot the 50% off coupon code: June_2011 (Probably trying to generate some cash to pay for the lawyers. - not meant in a negative or mean way, just a thought).

Hey, I wonder: EWTN has had some super great preaching and teaching videos that I’ve seen on EWTN’s in the past (I’m thinking in particular Robert Sungenis and now apparently Fr. Corapi) that now because of some particular reason they decide to not show anymore.

BUT, those particular talks are really good and orthodox in their substance AND very effective in their teaching and conversion. So why stop showing those? We don’t throw out everything Tertullian or Origen ever said or cease to utilize applicable orthodox philosophy or theology… so why disregard the good stuff from the new “Tertullian’s” and “Origen’s”? (I’m speaking from the perspective of EWTN choosing not to show anymore… I know there are other avenues to see/obtain the material)
Peace

 

[surfinpure]

I think the video was singling out Mark Shea and Jimmy Aikin from their blog posts. …Although nothing in the video even began to address their points. Seriously, accusing these men of being “too closely tied” to the “bad” bishops??? Ad hominem abounds…It would have been much better for that video to address the posts rather than attacking the bloggers.

It just feels like people are turning against each other over all of this, and it’s terrible! You have Catholics who love Fr. Corapi but are just sort of shell shocked…You have people defending any attempt at logically assessing the situation as personally attacking “their guy” and now we have Catholic apologists attacking and accusing other apologists of getting “fat bellies” from writing in favor of “the wrong side?”

Like I said…this is just sad, and we all need to pray for Fr. Corapi, for the Church, and for one another.

Amen.

 

[kitkatty]

If I have a minute, I will dig some up for you. There is one in particular, and I cannot recall now the website, but I myself was surprised by the downright ridicule of Fr. Corapi by a You Tube video they made. Something about “two dogs”. It was supposed to be funny. I was embarassed these people were representing the Church. Couldn’t believe it was a Catholic Christian site. Whether or not people are put off by this tragedy and put off by Fr. or not, this was downright uncalled for to do to any human. Reminded me of the ridicule the MSM dished out on Sarah Palin. Kind of Saturday Night Livish. There were others, not quite as bad but bad enough IMHO.

But you are quite correct, there is nothing at all wrong with the defense of a good Bishop. In fact I think that is what we are called to do.

I quite agree, the video is not only uncharitable but vicious. This is not a charitable Catholic response regardless if you were a Corapi supporter or not that was uncalled for.

 

[whm]

It just feels like people are turning against each other over all of this, and it’s terrible! You have Catholics who love Fr. Corapi but are just sort of shell shocked…You have people defending any attempt at logically assessing the situation as personally attacking “their guy” and now we have Catholic apologists attacking and accusing other apologists of getting “fat bellies” from writing in favor of “the wrong side?”

This is why all the speculation is bad. That is why the moderators have asked several times not to speculate. All this speculation is shaping the events. Father Corapi has been reading and responding to posts…