After sex scandal Rift in parish worsens

CEBU, Philippines - After two priests were accused of being involved in sex scandals last year, another crisis now affects parishioners of a town in southern Cebu.

Almost 20 Catholic lay ministers from the parish sought help from Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma yesterday early morning after a “rift” emerged between the priest and some of their parishioners. There are roughly 50 active lay ministers of the parish.

But because Palma’s morning schedule was already full, the lay ministers were instead asked to wait until 4:30 in the afternoon for a closed-door meeting.

One of the lay ministers who asked for anonymity said they could no longer stand how the priest was treating them since the “sex scandal” was publicized. He claimed that the priest is not allowing them to take communion. He added that the priest is avoiding them during the portion of the mass where everyone gives the “sign of peace.”  

Worse, the lay ministers said they are asked to re-apply for being a lay minister in the next three weeks. This, according to him, alarmed them because they normally renew their applications on September and not early in the year.

Also, they were asked to sign a “letter of trust and confidence” “favoring” the priest amidst the controversies.

“Di naman mi pakalawaton unya dili na sila mo-peace be with you namo inig misa…wala na gyud silay maayong pagtagad namo ug klaro kaayo nga nausab na ang tinagdanay,” he said.

The lay ministers believe that the “sudden changes” could be simply because of the scandal made public last year.

The parish’s team leader admits there is a “division” between the priest and some of their parishioners over the scandal. But he assures that they are very willing to settle the problem to give peace to their community.

One of the priests allegedly involved in the scandal was already sent for a retreat. — (FREEMAN)