The Rev. George Lange of St. Luke the Evangelist church in Westborough, MA chose to voice his opposition to the anti-gay marriage amendment by including the following statement in the September 11 church bulletin:
"The priests of this parish do not feel that they can support this amendment. They do not see any value to it and they see it as an attack upon certain people in our parish, namely those who are gay."
He got the hook as a result and was replaced last weekend by Worcester Bishop Robert McManus who scolded him to the congregation. A Diocese spokesperson indicates that Father George will not be around for this weekend's Mass either (when petition's are scheduled to be distributed) as he is taking a "previously scheduled vacation."
It has been reported to KnowThyNeighbor.org that the Archdiocese is allegedly threatening local priests with the loss of their pensions if they do not support the initiative petition measure and lead their parishioners to sign it.
Reverend Lange, it takes courage to stand up to such pressure. We thank you!
To express YOUR support for Father George and his associate pastor, Rev. Stephen Labaire:
St. Luke The Evangelist Church
70 West Main Street
Westborough, MA 01581
p. (508) 366-5502
f. (508) 366-6049
[email protected]
Read more in the MetroWest Daily News..
Aaron Toleos, Director