Catholic Diocese of Wheeling — Local services in Bethlehem

Sunday, June 23, 2019

It’s hard to believe that one could be surprised by the actions of the Catholic Church leadership. But once again we see a cover-up and a lack of transparency.

Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori, who is investigating Bishop of the West Virginia Diocese Michael J. Bransfield, has received at least $7500 from the bishop he is investigating. He along with several other churchman to include Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Cardinal Raymond Burke received cash payments from Bishop Michael J. Bransfield over the years.

Let’s remember that West Virginia is one of the poorest states in the country and the Catholic School System there is suffering from lack of funds. It is beyond belief that these men, leaders of the Catholic Church, would take money from Bishop Bransfield knowing the hardship that is present in his diocese. That money could have done so much more than support the lifestyles of these men.

Clericalism at its best.

Archbishop Lori directed that the report that he commissioned should exclude the names of the churchman who have received funds from Bishop Bransfield. Another cover-up. The names finally came out when the Washington Post published a non-redacted copy of the report Lori...

These men in charge of the diocese are a throwback to the bad clergy of the Middle Ages whose skin-deep spirituality and corruption caused the Protestant Revolt. These men, led by Bishop Bransfield, live the good life in a newly renovated 1.4 million dollar mansion, drive nice cars(the bishop owns more than one), and have a person chef. All the while they have destroyed the Catholic schools in Marshall County because there are no wealthy donors that would have made their tolerance of the schools worthwhile. It has become apparent that these "shepherds" are not willing to sacrifice for their flock. These men of the cloth are supposed to be a representation of Christ on Earth. Christ was born in a cave and lived a life of humility. These men live a luxurious lifestyle while most of the people of their diocese struggle to...

The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston is a very good diocese with many holy priests. Currently, under the episcopal reign of the Most Reverend Mark E. Brennan has been transparent and trustworthy. I see him as a mentor and a father in the faith, not only that but personally as a grandfatherly bishop who cares deeply for his spiritual children. Truly, he exemplifies, St. Paul who became a Father to many through the Gospel! The Church may be small in West Virginia, but the faith of the Catholics in this diocese is as vast as the mountains!

May God reign victoriously forever in the Mountain State and the Diocese of...