We finally get a good priest and he has to leave?? I don't get it....we've gone thru a lot in the last year as a parish, why this now?
It's disgusting. I guess it's true what they say about "absolute power".
Original post made by Concerned, Amador Estates, on Jun 22, 2008
Comments (58)
The decision to move Fr. Jim and Fr. Joy was not made by the clergy at CCOP or even by the bishop (although he signed off on it), but rather by many priests in the diocese as part of a larger transfer involving other priests as well. It will be sad to see Fr. Jim go, but if there is a good side of this story he has always wanted to serve in a Fremont parish which is where he will be going.
Chris,,,
You certainly are parroting what was announced. What was asked in Concerned's post however, was the REAL reason?! You didn't answer that question.
My vote would be that it has something to do with the current "administration".
Seems like all the fellow parishioners I know at CCOP have essentially been waiting news of his rotation since last fall....it was only a matter of time. Associates seems to be churned in & out of here every couple of years. That's nothing new to CCOP.
Joe S - I did provide the "real reason" Take a look at not just the change being made at CCOP, but all the announced changes involving priest movement diocese wide and you can see how they all play into each other.
It is conspiracy theorists like you though that make this forum interesting.
The new administrator can't bear to have another popular priest around. He is getting rid of anybody standing in his way. Look at the so called lay-offs happening so far.
It's amazing to me, how a good community like CCOP can start to look like a sterotypical "small-town" w/it's conspiracy mode on high. Wasn't this CCOP community thrilled when Fr. Green returned, although suspicion around that also surrounded his return? And now the community is going to turn on the Pastor as one other pastor leaves? Yes, Fr. Jim has made an impact, however so have others who have come and gone. There are not enought priests in the vocation to have them stay in one place. Rather than looking for a stone to cast, how about practice what we believe! Shame on this community.
Let's see. We have the conspiracy theorists, and then we have the anti-stone-throwers throwing stones at the whole community. Why "shame on this community"? Why paint the whole community with a pejorative broad brush? Some people were distraught over Fr. Greene's appointment and some, as was said, were thrilled. Others were somewhere in between. The community is not a monolith of thought and feeling. Everyone has a right to their feelings and their opinions on how things are going in the parish. Shame does not help: listening does.
Although a rotation for Fr. Jim was sure to happen, this is 1 year early. To move two priests at the same time is also very very unusual. We were promised by Fr. Dan that Fr. Jim's appointment was going to be 3 yr stay. which means he should of left June of '09. This parish has suffered enough regardless of any opinion of Fr. Greene. Greene had to sign off on the move. If he truly had this parish best interest in mind he would of advocated against an early rotation of Fr. Jim and utilized him to help heal this parish. Division within our parish is only made worse. Given the Bishop's letter today identifying our youth and young adults as a priority, supports even more that our leadership again is not serving the needs of this parish. Then whom he is serving?
Is Fr. Green "Pastor"? Is he not still the parochial administrator? I thought he was not officially the pastor yet. If he is not Pastor yet, how can people who are asking questions be "turning on the Pastor?"
I think anyone who was around for the 20+ years with our community knows he would have never "promised" that an associate priest would be here over a set period of time. It is unusual that two priests would leave at the same time, but we also haven't had such a shortage of priests in the history of the church. I disagree the greater community of CCOP needs to be healed or has "suffered" this past year. I see mass attendance staying the same since Fr. Greene's appointment and the energy level still amazing at the 6:30 mass that I attend. I also in discussions with different members of the community haven't heard any recent discussion on last years appoinment. It is behind us and we have moved on.
Just because you say that CCOP does not need healing, or that some within the community may have not suffered does not make it so. Nor would I deny you that you may have not heard any recent discussion on the appointmnet made ~6 months ago, to be exact. In fact I believe you (although you would deny me what I heard and yes I am 20+ years). Consider that while you "moved on" you freely gave up your desire to be really present to those who would of liked to have engaged with you. Clearly they would of understood you were not open to them. We are all guilty of having eyes that cannot see or ears that cannot hear, myself included. Because it is "behind" you does not negate the voices of others or perhaps even the validity of those voices, even now questioning what is currently happening within CCOP. Agreement and "energy" are nice feelings that I welcome and want to share with you, but in the absence of clarity, that becomes more difficult. A greater understanding of each other and a deeper commitment to our Catholic faith is lost as is the unity of our church that is underlined with the truth. Only in the presence of Jesus can we regain and keep our balance and become better Catholics. So,I will continue to pray for my own clarity. That requires me to not follow blindly but to ask thoughtful questions re: decisions now or later made by leadership at all levels regarding "issues" of CCOP. I will remain hopeful that the desire to seek discerment and the truth is planted in every heart, including our leadership. I hope everyone who reads this post, with the power of the Holy Spirit, does the same.
Such is the life of a priest. Wheter it's now or later, associates never stay for too long no matter how much they are loved. Once they become pastors, they can stay for a long time like Father Dan.
I would not try to read too much into the details of why this happened now. The workings of the church is the stuff of man. But the faith is eternal and everlasting - the stuff of God.
How long has Fr. Joy been here? Under a year?
And did Jim Silva retire or what? I missed the good bye a few weeks ago. I go between St. Raymonds and Elizabeth Seaton because of my Mom who lives in Dublin. I heard about this from the St. Raymond crowd.
What we need most in the parish is PRAYER. The pain that a lot of us are still feeling is still a wound that is very fresh. I believe that Fr. Jim was sent here by the Lord to help us during this trying time in our parish...I know that in my heart. To lose Fr. Jim at this time makes me feel that our feelings have not been considered again! Most priests are not rotated so quickly and they serve at least three years unless there is some sort of problem. Search your hearts and pray for our parish and those who shephard us. May God bless us all and keep us close.
I think a lot of people are disgusted about a lot of things. Loosing Fr Jim is like pouring salt in the wound. As crazy as this may sound, I was always so happy when we got him for the Mass. He made a difference in this parish that I have not felt in a long time. He was the real deal. It really does make you wonder whats going on especially with Fr. Joy leaving so quickly and a lot of good people in charge of the religious programs all gone too. Seems like a lot of changes in one parish when we don't really have an official pastor yet.
Chris - Your comments seem awfully high and mighty. Just because YOU have moved on and aren't hurting does NOT mean that others have. There is a LOT going on underneath the surface that most parishioners do not know and it is NOT good. Many, many people (at least those who haven't left--and they are many of those) are still VERY angry, hurt, and frustrated by Fr. Greene's appt. And yes, it is entirely possible and actually more than likely that he is the entire reason behind Fr. Jim leaving. Fr. Greene is way into new age spiritualities and Fr. Jim isn't. And that's only one difference.
i would agree with bob's comment. Jealousy has a lot to do with it. Our new administrator--not pastor yet--is very into himself and a very good actor, which is why members like Chris are fooled.
If it is jealousy, that is so very sad. I can see how that might be the case. Maybe that's what Former altarboy meant about the "stuff of man". Jealousy is sure not the work of God. What really scares me is how long Fr. Green might stay if he is in fact made pastor. Anyhow, the Freemont parish will be blessed with Fr, Jim.
Associate priests get rotated in and out of churches all the time!! Especially churches like CCOP. Stop trying to create news, folks, when it's not there. If you're really curious, why not ask the administration you're accusing?
Haven't visited these Weekly blogs since last winter. Now I remember why I stopped. Have fun, folks. Try to be happy. So long.
We would get a straight, honest answer from the current administration? I don't think that would happen. We would get doublespeak such as yours and others presented here (oh, it happens all the time, get over it,,,etc, etc..) They would prefer us to be in the dark about the truth.
You have choices:
1. Try to make a change;
2. Accept it; or
3. Move on.
Remember the serenity prayer? Good luck and God bless you all. I'm outa this forum.
The Catholic Church should neither deceive nor be decieved.If any member of this community feels this might be happening, then they have an obligation to ask questions to be sure neither occurs. All of us are the body of Christ so we are His hands, mouth, ears, eyes etc. I don't really think anyone is trying to create news or simply be curious but are reacting to events that are in the news and seeking clarity. In doing so, they do the entire community a great favor. We don't have to agree, but lets at least have clarity so that we are neither deceiving or being deceived. The Serenity prayer is good as is the St Francis prayer: "where there is darkness, light" God Bless you too and may the Holy Spirit provide all of us with discernment.
Just read all of these. I had to really chuckle with the one comment "Try to be happy" and later offering only 3 chocies on how to achieve this. Looks like this poster left off another option:
#4 Stick your head in the sand! Only problem though, it has a very deceptive quality: it makes you feel safe and comfortable but leaves parts of you exposed. At some point you are going to get blind sited right in the 'ole keester!
Fr. Jim has shown nothing butclass since the announcement of him leaving. And lots of humility too since day 1 of his arrival. His wonderful homilies, his reverence and his love of God and the people in this community will be so so missed by our family. God be with you always. He will continue to use you.
Father Jim is leaving this month,and Fr Joy left yesterday.
And this is because of Fr Greene's ego. Also three very well
liked priests are are leaving St Michaels. Is this also because
of the pastor's ego. Are we also assuming that the new priests
won't be liked. Fr. Jim knew several months ago that the
possiblity of his transfer was likely. Is it possible that the
new parish has a need for him or is CCOP more important. I for
one, will wait until the 13th to see how I feel about the new
priests.
I don't think any of us are questioning our feelings about the new priests coming, we are questioning why Fr. Jim is leaving so early. CCOP has always been a very welcoming parish to new priests and we try to make them feel very welcome....ask any of the priests how they feel about Pleasanton! But those of us who still feel the pain about Mr. Greene being here and maybe becoming our pastor are still trying to heal from this pain and we take this move as a control issue. Fr. Jim will better off by moving on and being able to shephard his flock the way he feels that the Lord is calling him to do so. And those of use of still are healing from this need your prayers and not your verbal abuses. We should all respect each other opinions and pray for healing and unity among parishioneers but especially for peace amongst our priests!
Look beyond Pleasanton to see the larger picture. There are many more moves going on around us. The pastor from another parish in the diocese was scheduled to move on and an associate was brought in to take over. When it was time for the pastor to move on the associate was transferred out of the area code and two priests from outside the diocese were brought in to take over. Drilling down deeper we find that the associate pastor is basically being swapped for these two other priests after being trained for over a year to take over this parish.
Makes you kind of wonder what is really going on here. Now our deanery will be without a single priest with more than mere days on the job in the deanery.
Something is afoot and it isn't good.
There is a lot more going on in the rectory of CCOP. As much as I will miss Father Jim, I am happy for him to be at a better place without a phony and revengeful administrator.
Good luck and blessings to you, Father Jim.
Like they say, what goes up must go down!
What I don't get is how come so many folks at CCOP don't quite appreciate Fr. Greene's ego? Everybody has an ego. What is it you don't appreciate?
Maybe Fr. Jim is happy with the transfer. Has anyone asked him?
Cholo: I am not a fan of Fr. Green but I do pray for him and will trust God. I mean absolutely no disrespect by saying this.
There is nothing wrong having self respect, but being egotistical is something I personally don't appreciate. People with high levels of self-esteem do not need to determine their self-worth by comparing themselves, either acting out or in their own minds, with others or use circumstances or events to affirm themselves. It is not a bad thing to be egotistical if you lived all by yourslef and it had no affect on others. But that is not the case. Regardless, I do think it is very very sad to be that way.
One more thing: All of us are sacred creatures of a Divine Creator. We are called to honor that as such and "ego" only gets in the way. I try really hard to do that and although I still need to work a lot on being the kind of person God made, I think our church leaders need to be held to the same standard because I look toward them to help me. May God Bless everyone who posted. Keep praying
I am finding interest in quite a few posters here talking of Fr. Greene's ego, but offering no examples of how they think his is out of check. I personally find it a positive trait for a priest to have a great deal of self-confidence. The personal encounters with the man though haven't left me with a feeling that his position of power has gone to his head. It is also refreshing to have a pastor (Parochial Administrator) who knows and calls his parishioners by their name.
Chris, sooner or later you will get on his hit-list. And then watch out! Many have been verbally and emotionally abused by him. Yes, he will call you by your name. He will remember everything about you and your family and that makes you feel good and appreciated. After a while you trust him and then...pow!
Words have meaning. Last time I read the bulletin, parochial administrator was not in ( ) or preceded by pastor. Anyhow, I agree with Elizabeth. There's a big difference between a "great deal" of self confidence and ego. As far as an example goes, terminating lay people who were doing a good job might be the first place to start. Have you spoken to any of them? There are other examples of and hopefully they will all come out in the open so people like you can understnad why the other half of CCOP is so darn upset.
I find the comments that are made about our CCOP parish very judgemental and more disturbing, potentially disgraceful.
With so many people making these type of comments, I wonder if you would stand up at church with ALL present and make the same judgemental remarks that destroy the credibility of our community , parishioners and clergy leaders.
It's apparent most of you on this CCOP list are very self serving and feel powerless.
My advice if you have these concerns with our parish and people who serve, address it properly and pretend you are standing up in front of your church so that every one can see where and who are making these statements. If you do this, we will know it is coming from your heart instead of you selfish agenda.
Be careful who you publicly berate, they have feelings too.
Who wants to throw the first stone ???
I still don't think that anybody has explained clearly what is meant by a big ego. It impresses me as psych babble, something out of Psychology Today.
I don't appreciate the filthy behavior Fr. Greene engaged in an Oakland park toilet. That he was arrested by a vice cop for displaying his genitals in public seems to me to make him less of a candidate for a leadership position in any church! In my opinion, Fr. Greene is simply too nasty to head any congregation.
Still, if he is doing the job of parochial administrator, isn't that what he was hired for? It seems to me that there are so many disgruntled members at CCOP that maybe it's better to move on a find another church in another community. Don't put any money in the basket...ever! Hope you folks can solve this problem; I doubt that you can because the spit is wide and the dissatisfaction overwhelming.
Nobody at CCOP seems to have a level head.
Cholo: The level headed ones are swept out!
I am a 52 year old cradle Catholic and take my faith very seriously. I have never met a priest so gifted as Father Jim. He so willingly gives personal blessings that are heartfelt, emotional, and spiritually guided. He educates us in the meaning of the bible by explaining the historical references in context with Jesus. He makes The Word come alive with meaning. I've never been so informed, inspired, and enlightened by a priest during mass. He may be a sophomore priest, but he is way ahead of the rest in knowing that people want to connect with an authority of the church on an emotional level. He shows his feelings every time he says mass. He is the priest CCOP needs. He is the priest our teenagers and children need. He is the priest who reteaches us our Catholic story as adults. He may be leaving but he isn't going far. I will follow him. Even so, I would like to know the real reason behind the early departure. I believe the head of our parish should explain in the Sunday bulletin.
I agree with the last post completely. Unfortunately I don't think the real reason will ever come out, least so in the bulletin. Did you notice that the reminder for both Fr. Joy and Jim good bye reception was not even mentioned in the last bulletin. I also agree with Cholo from Livermore, last posting. Don't put any money in the basket. That unfortunately seems to say more than any one person can say on this blog.
You have a good point Bob, about jealousy being the reason behind Fr. Sullivan’s early reassignment! Could it be that Fr. Green’s ego has been more than a little bruised to have an associate who is as popular, especially with the youth of our parish, as Fr. Jim is? How sad is that, and what does it say about Fr. Green? I also agree with Jane D., who suggested that Fr. Green is a good actor; yes, he certainly is. Did anyone else notice the, hardly suppressed, glee in Fr. Green’s voice when he made the announcement of Fr. Joy and Fr. Jim’s reassignments a couple of weeks ago? Correct me if I’m wrong, but in the past, hasn’t the priest being reassigned made his own announcement? So why did Fr. Porig make the announcements? Is he a micro manager too?
Patty, can I ask what you know that the rest of us don’t, regarding Fr. Jim “knowing about his reassignment months ago”? Are you in a position to have information that the rest of the parish is not? Yes, I agree, Fr. Sullivan probably knew that he would be up for reassignment soon, but that it would most likely sometime during his third year here; NOT over 6 months in advance of the expected date.
‘E’, we ordinary parishioners won’t necessarily learn the “real” reason behind Fr. Jim’s reassignment, even if Fr. Green were to seriously contemplate addressing this issue in the bulletin. Considering, from all the posts on this site, the consensus of opinion is that Fr. Green has an ego bigger than the Pacific Ocean, I think we’d only get his spin on the matter, and not the whole unvarnished truth.
Regarding Fr. Jim’s original assignment to CCOP: when it was announced, a little over two years ago, that we would be getting a newly ordained priest, Fr. Dan DID say, from the ambo that our new priest was being assigned to CCOP for 3 years. In Fr. Dan’s own words: “because of all the changes that will be taking place in the parish”, and this was mainly due to Fr. Danielson’s imminent retirement.
I too have heard rumor and gossip about what has been going on behind the scenes in the parish and I’m sorry to say that, what I have heard, has all come from the supporters of our parochial administrator. This leads me to ask: Has Fr. Green spoken out of turn to people within this parish? I, for one, do not expect our ‘soon to be pastor’ to gossip about his fellow associate priests to parishioners!
So far, I haven’t heard that Fr. Jim, or any of his supporters, has said anything negative about this reassignment or, more importantly, anything false about Fr. Green. Seems like Fr. Sullivan has risen above all the tittle-tattle being put about by certain people in this parish; which only goes to prove that Fr. Jim Sullivan has treated any lies, innuendo or gossip with the contempt that it deserves. It also says an awful lot about his character, moral fiber and, to me, is proof positive that Fr. Jim is a man of integrity!
So, can anyone enlighten me: What does all this say about Fr. Green and his supporters? Will us parishioners yet again be fed the ‘party line’ and be expected to swallow it whole? How does Fr. Danielson feel about all of this, after all, he supported Fr. Greens appointment? Does the bishop have any idea about what is going on in this parish right now?
In protest, because we feel that the leadership in the Catholic Commuinty of Pleasanton leaves an awful lot to be desired, my family and I are moving to another parish. We also feel that it will be detrimental to CCOP and the diocese in the long term, if Fr. Green is installed as pastor.
When the news broke about Fr. Greene's arrest by SNAP I felt that this parish had put it's head in the sand and never came back up! This is the type of ignorance that keeps preditors abusing and hurting people, be it sexually or verbally. When he would get standing ovations at mass, I was dumbfounded! All of these educated people in Pleasanton and they can't clearly see what is happening right in front of their eyes.
Fr. Greene is very controlling and unfortunately has made life very difficult for Fr. Jim. When Fr. Greene found out that he could not spin his web and catch Fr. Jim in it, he did the next best thing and got rid of him. If you don't believe me, why don't you just ask Fr. Jim?
Is this the kind of man you want running your parish and guiding your youth? Forgiveness is something we all have to have but responsibility for your actions is another, especially when you are in a position of leadership and guidance both spiritually and morally. Is this man a shepard or a manipulator?
I pray that peace can once again be restored to our parish without losing anyone else. Please reconsider Estella because you are not alone with your feelings. I know sometimes I feel that I am, especially during the standing ovations! We have a wonderful community and yes Cholo it is because of the community that we stay! I will not give up my church because of a MAN! Pray....Pray...and pray some more. I will forgive but not forget.
Correction: SNAP did NOT arrest Fr. Greene. He was arrested by the Vice Squad of the Oakland Police Department. SNAP stands for Survivor's Network of those Abused by Priests. The people of SNAP expose sexual predators but SNAP has no authority to arrest anyone.
Giorgi stay, and consider not making a $ offering.
Good luck CCOP!
Cholo,
I do not think that Giorgio was, in any way, suggesting that SNAP was reponsible for the arrest of Fr. Greene!
We all understand that SNAP was simply protesting that a priest arrested for 'lewd behavior' should not be put in charge of this community, of the youth here, or anywhere else for that matter.
Giorgio,
Sorry, I cannot reconsider. My family and I are outta here..! We just cannot stay in CCOP. However, we will find a catholic church to worship in :-)
All the best to CCOP, you need it!
Estella P
Estella: Don' be surprised if the bishop is behind all of the present fuss and transfer of popular priests.
Bishop Vigneron and Fr. Greene do not have satisfactory report cards from SNAP. I recommend that members of the parish of CCOP contact SNAP and/or the Contra Costa Times if you want to bring the matter of Fr. Greene and the Bishop to the attention of the bay area public for further investigation.
When Fr. Greene was arrested for trying to pick up a vice cop a park toilet; his exciting toilet playground was taken away and it's pay back time for those CCOP members who didn't support him. It's no surprise to me that CCOP kids like Fr. Jim over a pervert. He has poor judgement and it landed him in JAIL! How come a jail bird is the leader of the Catholic faithful in Pleasanton? Because he can! A PERV rules CCOP!!!
We are now experiencing the consequences of the poor decision of the Bishop to appoint Fr Green:more bad decisions. There is a pattern here that tells me it won't be the last. Although Fr Jim and Fr. Joy will be in a better place to pursue their ministry, the lack of leadership in Oak. is apparent. Just maybe the CCOP is getting exactly what it deserves.
I hope all of you who like to propagate untruths and find energy supporting each others negative posts find a more worthwhile cause that truly needs fixing. The decision to move Fr. Jim and Fr. Joy came from more external sources and it was the bishop who signed off on both at the end. Take a look at all the priests in the diocese that were part of this shuffle and still tell me it was Fr. Greene from one of several parishes affected that orchestrated it all. Get your facts straight everyone.
Web Link Dr. Jim Jenkins recommends NO CASH DONATIONS.....READ THIS IMPORTANT ARTICLE!
Dave: Your right only on one account. Fr Greene did not "orchestrate" the "shuffle" but it was BECAUSE OF FR GREENE the "shuffle" had to happen. The "external sources" you site was in your own backyard!!!But your head is in the sand so you just can't see it. The Bishop "signed off" but if Greene wanted even just one of his priests protected,,that could of happened, and the Bishop would of "signed off" on that too. Especially since CCOP just got Greene in Jan.(a "shuffle" under 6 months???) Just try looking at it differently Dave, and the things you call "untruths" may actually be the "facts" you want to deny. AS far as the energy you cite? Trust me, it's a heck of a lot easier to bury your head, like you are electing to do and label the rest of us "negative". I will pray for your discernment Dave, but the rest is up to you.
Web Link
Please scroll to bottom of page to read about Bishop Vigneron & Fr. Greene.
Where is the proof that Fr. Greene started the ball rolling on the priest movement? I would be happy to admit my "head is in the sand" if any of you could give me a bit of evidence to support the claim. It is almost as I said earlier someone got started on this line of questioning and it developed a life of its own on this tread.
The web links above don't explore any news not already known and not already well discussed. The articles are also dated.
The catholic church is full of individuals of strong faith and choose for their own reasons not to put money in the basket. It is nothing new Cholo, but those who have always choose to support the church financially will not keep their money in their pockets for any reasons that have been stated here so far.
Dave: Fr Greene did NOT start the ball rolling. It was BECAUSE OF HIM that they had to move priests.
NO CASH DONATIONS...NO CASH DONATIONS...NO DONATIONS!
Sometimes old news can help individuals find location.
Fr. Padraig Greene engaged in filthy behavior that violated California law. Given the nature of his offense, it will never be dated news. He is the same predatory priest that showed off his genitals for all to see in a public toilet.(Comment partially removed by Pleasanton Weekly Online staff as innuendo or hearsay unsupported by facts.) I find it very curious that once again he is in the middle of another controversy.
He is not trusted by some members of CCOP for valid reasons. When he violated the trust and broke CA law, he undermined social cooperation. His eventual role as Pastor" will be troubled and will further split the CCOP faithful. Sad...
All I can say is that it is easier to feel then to think. I am new to this community but I am not new to thinking. Just looking at the posts tells me some of the people here are driven more by how they feel about things opposed to how they think. Probably because its easier or is this the California liberal way of doing things??? If I had known all this in April when we moved here, you can believe I never would of sought community in this parish. I am from NJ area and seeing no pews at Elizabeth Seaton was quite alarming (where is the tabernacle anyhow???)More alarming though is the leadership. I did not know Fr Jim well but as an outsider, it was apparent he was loved by many. I saw this and heard it from many as well. My name is fake because I have kids. I THINK many here would FEEL differently about me if I were to use my real name.
This thread needs an objective look..............and some prospective. I am tired of the spin.........of suspicion, intrique and back door politics...
This is about transferring of personnel by the Dioocese of Oakland to fill open spots. It has been happening this time of year for years. Fr Jim may be loved and missed in the shuffle, but so was Fr Padraig when he was moved 6 years ago from CCOP. He was celebrated for his gifts and ministry when he was transferred away and there were standing ovations when he returned!!!
Now it is time to give Fr Jim another experience and exposure.... This happens in the real world, and the Diocese must utilize its talent wherever it is needed and Father Jim has Spanish background which will help him in his new parish in Fremont. Fr Jim needs to make the best of his new assignment.
Perhaps this thread was begun by friends of Fr Jim to support that he stay at CCOP, in hopes that a swelling of support and renewal of last fall controversary would hinder his move.
This Sunday in addition to the going away for Fr Jim and Joy will be a chance for CCOP to be the welcoming community we propose and welcome with open hands and hearts the two new priests who will come to serve the commnity. If Father Jim is truly the man you suggest, he will encourage you to welcome his replacements and believe what we are told ------- NOT MINE, BUT THY WILL BE DONE....
Tired of the Spin:
What exactly is it that you are objecting to? Free Speech? Now that's a right enshrined in the Consitution!
Or is it the fact that some members of CCOP no longer have faith in the leadership of this community? Is it because some parishioners will not swallow the 'party line' any longer, and object to the "spin" and "back Door' politics used by the new leadership of this community? Perhaps it's because some of the parishioners see Fr. Green for what he is and don't like what they are seeing that is making you so mad.
Please, please, please, be our guest, "Tired of the Spin", and DO ask Fr. Greene about "spin" and "back door politics". Then let us know whether or not you actually beleive that you've received a straight answer!
Whilst you are entiltled to your opinion, so are the rest of the people posting here.
"Tired of the Spin", this is my very first post and since reading all of the input here I am totally disgusted by the insults that you throw at the people of CCOP, your fellow Christians.
As a first time poster, and having read ALL the posts, I consider that this debate was started by a genuinely concerned parishioner. One who wanted to know the 'real reason' why Fr. Sullivan is being moved nearly a year early. Simple question requiring a simple answer. An answer that the leadership of CCOP is not prepared to address for fear of what the answer might say about them!
Fact is: Fr. Jim IS being moved a year early!
The orignial question has since morphed into why Fr Green felt so threatened by Fr. Sullivan, to who has heard what gossip and from whom...
Having said that, you know what, "tired of the spin" we ordinary parishioners are entitled to consider all aspects of Fr. Greens character, and to decide whether or not to fully support his installation in two years time, as Pastor of this community.
That, my friend, is the nature of 'free speech'. We also need to ask questions like: What if Fr. Greene feels threatened by one of the incoming priests? What's he gonna do then? Have another hissy fit and get the new priest moved on!
Sorry, "tired of the spin" but that's the nature of converstations, they move from subject to subject and TRY to make sense of the world that each of us, as individuals, inhabit.
Contrary to what you think, "Tired of the Spin", I'm sure that Frs, Joy & Jim absolutely encourage the parishioners of the Catholic community of Pleasanton to welcome the new priests assigned here with open arms.
'Tired of the spin": Whilst I agree that you too are entitled to your opinion, please stop being so pious and judgemental towards your fellow man!
By the way, it's "perspective" NOT prospective!
Tired of Spin: Your post IS THE SPIN. Your "objective" look is again denying the facts so perhaps you should of started your post with "my SUBJECTIVE" look. As for "hindering the move", seems to me most on here have said Fr Jim is better served and can certainly serve his ministry more fully outside of CCOP so no one is trying to "hinder" the move. Instead of being concerned about his "experience and exposure", I have to selfishly admit, I am more concerned about CCOP's "experience" with Fr Green since his "exposure". The standing ovation for Fr Greene you speak of was before the facts (notice I use "facts" for the "reality" I refer to) were made known to the faithful of CCOP. So if anyone should be "tired of the spin" and "back door politics" it those of us who do NOT deny the facts but use them to ask the right questions in the interest of CCOP.By the way, the reception of Frs. Jim and Joy is not "this Sunday". Its on the 13th!
These comments have run their course. Thanks for posting.
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