"The archdiocese asked anyone with information relevant to Wielebski to call the Office of Child and Youth Protection at 410-547-5599".....

Rather than call the diocese, please call the police. They are the ones who should be investigating this crime.

Judy Jones, SNAP Midwest Associate Director, snapnetwork.org

The official statement from the Archdiocese of Baltimore states emphatically that any alleged accusations should be reported to the civil authorities. It is, secondly, stated, that allegations should be reported to the Archdiocese. Make no mistake, The Roman Catholic Church, working through the system of archdiocese' and within the civil system, has every desire, intention and effort to extend the compassion our Father calls us to do in His name, toward both the accused and the alleged victims. We at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish have known a compassionate shepherd in Fr. John, a person we feel is in no way capable of the accusations. I have, however, asked my fellow parishioners to include the alleged victims and all those dealing with this heartwrenching situation to extend prayer, understanding and compassion to all those involved. I know that Fr. John would desire and expect the same of his flock. Dodi Bradford

Miss Jones, These are allegations. Until proof is shown there is no crime. Don't judge prematurely. And FYI the authorities are involved.

I am glad to see that Fr.John has people standing in his corner.Too often,people like Miss Jones rush to judgement without knowing the facts.I'm not one of Fr.John's flock but one of his friends.I worked for him at St.Dominic's along with many other people who will say these allegations are total BS.The people making the allegations have criminal records a mile long.They are out for a payday from the church.

It's disheartening to me as a parishioner at Resurrection that Father John's good name is being dragged through the mud in the reporting of these allegations without any proof of guilt. I'm not sure how a balance can be achieved in reporting these allegations and protecting the reputation of Father John, but it certainly, to me, seems very slanted against Father John to this point. He deserves better.

As a fellow Resurrection of Our Lord parishioner I echo Dodi's comments. This is a troubling time for our faith community regardless of the outcome of investigations. "Due dilligence" on behalf of civil and Church authorities is key. I know from my own family experience as well as teh experience of others that it can take one or two d e c a d e s for allegations to surface. I'm also aware that in this ecomony the Church can be considered a tempting litigation target. For Father John's sake, for the sake of those who made allegations and for the RoOL community as a whole, please keep everyone in your prayers.

Reporting the allegations to the Diocese may short-circuit the work of law-enforcement. It is up to civil authorities, not the Diocese, to decide if and when the person under investigation is to be notified. Otherwise, the accused may contrive to either destroy evidence or tamper with witnesses.

Note also that anything an accuser says to the Diocese may be used against him or her in subsequent litigation.

Those who support this priest, do so in private.

The diocese has already said that there are no less than three accusations.

Sadly, many abusers, most abusers, seem on the surface to be "nice guys," "holy men," "compassionate shepherds." They're good at their jobs. The image of the creepy guy who scares everybody is just a stereotype.

In fact, most abusers are charming and gain access to their victims more easily by virtue of their charisma.

They do a good job--- except that their personal demons, mental illnesses, or lack of psychosexual maturity causes them to act out in ways that are harmful to children and vulnerable adults.

Greg, who are you to tell those who support him to do so in private? We live in a free country and from what i can remember we are still innocent until proven guilty.

I know Father John well from his multiple appointments at Sacred Heart Church in Glyndon. He has an enduring faith legacy here at Sacred Heart, especially in youth ministry, and we pray for him. For those who do not know Father John, he has helped many many people on the fringe of life, especially the homeless, drug addicts, alcoholics, prison inmates, runaways, etc and I fear these allegations may be motivated for a big money church payoff by one of these very people whose life he may have once saved (both physically and spiritually).
Father John saved my life.

Me my wife and seven kids all know father John, we dont believe a single word of any kind of abuse from this man could ever take place, today or 30 years ago, it will need to be proven beyond a shadow of doubt, we support Father John 100% in public, and in private, We will wait until his great name is cleared.

Coming from a leader of the the youth group of Rool, Fr. John has been an important part of the community if not, then our youth ministry. We as a middle school and high school youth groups have never even THOUGHT of thinking about Fr. John showin any kind of cases for what he is being accused of. I have been an altar server for 9 year, and a sacristian for 3. I have been around him while working and all he should be accused of is being a father figure for people. Especially for me. As my father left the picture Fr. john has helped me more than he can even imagine. some of what i am i owe to him. I will continue to pray as well as our youth group.

While I understand many of you supposedly know the man Rev. John Wielebski. But, I assure you, none of you know ALL of him. He may be your priest, your friend, your leader in faith; but, you do not know what goes on behind the surface of Father John. Often sex offenders are not the people you think they are at all. I, as well, know John Wielebski and I am not shocked at all. On the surface, I would have never thought such a thing. However, I do believe it "Could" be true. Who are any of you to dismiss the accusations just because you 'know' the priest? We all think we know people, but do we really??? Ask yourself Has there ever been one, just one time you felt that he wasn't the leader you knew him to be in your life or maybe your fellow parishoners lives?

Who are any of you to judge the people who have come forward? Some, may have a history of crime...interesting. This is often a way of life for those abused or who have suffered a traumatic experience. They need support and prayer. Children and young men/women who are victims don't come out with what has happened because of fear, because they are confused and don't know what to make of such things. He is a leader, he is someone their parents more than likely trusted. He is someone you stand up for and I wonder how well all of you realIy know him. I assure you if these terrible acts are true, he managed to manipulate the people around him into believing he was their most trusted friend, 'priest', man of 'counsel' and a so-called man of 'God'. What better position in the world to have to manipulate in. God punishes us on Earth for our behaviors and maybe this is one of the times that God has brought forth a person who does not deserve his title or his power.

It's a disappointment that the Catholic Church has done a 180 in terms of investigating alleged abuses. Before removing Fr. John from his position and damaging his reputation, detailed investigative work should have occurred. Hopefully, those of us that support Fr. John will lift him up and enable him to carry on once the truth is revealed.

If you read the press release dated 1/10/2010 you will see that this was being investigated. The press release states "While investigating the initial allegation of sexual abuse of a minor...the Archdiocese also learned of additional allegations of sexual misconduct..." In addition, civil authorities had been investigating this long before removing him. They don't just remove someone without some sort of evidence unless it's for their protection and the Archdiocese shouldn't be criticized for the way they handled the case.

Who are you, Holy Spirit? Do you a real name?

I simply am a person who advocates for the rights of people abused. I do not judge Father John, but all I ask for people to do is acknowledge that we don't all truly know people. Also, I want people to realize that this was an investigation before he was pulled out of his church, there was no secret about that. What I write is of opinion and on the fact that only 2-3% of people who come forward about abuse later in their lives are lying. I understand that Father John has strong supporters and that is a good thing as he does need support and prayer. However, so do the possible victims of misconduct or abuse. I pose questions not accusations. I would not take the time to worry about who I am. But, rather, take the time to think about who Father John is and pray - pray for all of those involved. God will reveal the truth and it may be the he isn't an abuser; however, when you look at the numbers and look at the investigation and the fact he is pulled from his church...I might think otherwise (unless it is for his protection).

I am praying for all involved and will continue to pray every day for all involved, Father John, the people making the allegations, our parish and the Church. I was just thinking by your using the name "Holy Spirit," you either think very highly of yourself or you want to hide your identity--which is it.

I as well as many others knew Fr John quite well during his term at Sacred Heart when he was a Brother. He was a good friend and someone you could rely on for sound guidance throughout my teen years. I was shocked when I heard this news. I don't buy these allegations at all....sounds like someone is just out to make a quick buck or slander his character due to a grudge they hold.

To the "Holy Spirit" blogger....reading some of your comments, sounds like you just like to stir the pot.... doesn't sound like you know him or have ever come in contact with him. It would do you some good to talk to someone like Fr John so you could get your head straightened out and realize that not all Catholic Priests are lurking around waiting for the opportunity to abuse parish members. I'm a retired Senior Military Officer and pilot. I CAN say I am a good judge of people and their character after having led, and been in charge of hundreds of personnel. Fr John is a solid, straight shooter, not the type of person that would be associated with any of the alligations.

You need to stop surfing the internet for contraversial issues and get a good healthy hobby.

I know john, and i am deeply affected by this. You are attacking someone (holy spirit) with common sense and thats upsetting. You need to listen to the people whom he may have hurt in other ways (not just these types of allegations). Most of all, not just your own opinions. He has hurt many people and I'm speaking of recently. I have counseled many in this time of hardship and i am saddened by the lack of compassion for the victims. You all should pray for the people affected by this man and look into yourself for answers. Be not the judge but the word of our Father... do not unto others............ stop the rally and pray!

To J Boris: I do not know why your tone towards my comments is so mean-spirited. I do know Father John and I do think it could be possible. A blind eye to this is no way to live. I wonder if you have children you have allowed around him??? As a parent, you would always question these accusations. Given that you are a retired senior military officer and pilot, I would hope you would be more open to such accusations. You above many people should know about the ways of manipulations. You would also know that he would not have been pulled from his position if the accusations were not founded.

To those who question who I am and why I remain anonymous: The message from J Boris is precisely why!

DO NOT JUDGE ME! I didn't comment for that purpose. So, with that said, I still say PRAY for the victims and PRAY for John Wielebski.

Oh...one more thing J Boris...as for your hobby comment...this is by no means a hobby...I trusted this man myself...this is about my life. He has been a man I turned to many times and he changed over the time I knew him. I have seen him treat people like the dirt beneath his feet. Maybe he didn't do that when he was Brother. But, his power may have changed him. He has affected my family in many ways and I have seen him do the same thing to other families and people. Yet, I remained faithful to him and his way to the Lord even when I questioned it. Again, I do not know if these allegations are true and I still judge him-I just know what he has done to many - for a FACT!

Meant to say "I still don't judge him.

Holy Spirit and Jackson, you both are vague about how Father John hurt you, your family and other people. What kind of hurtful behavior are you referring to? What exactly has he "done to many" and how has he "hurt (people) in other ways?"

Why would I share that personal information on a blog? The reason I posted was to get people to see that there may be victims. I am an advocate for abused victims. My personal run-in with Father John does not pertain to this and in my comment above I am specific enough about the way Father John hurt my family. I am not out to make the man look evil. He will either do that on his own or not. My response was not to everyone just Mr. Judgmental Boris.

I just want people to acknowledge that most of the time victims are not out for a quick buck that they could be victims expecially when they come out about sexual abuse. I feel terrible for the accusers, if they are in fact victims. I don't even know if they really are but I can't believe people just dismiss the idea of it being true when there was obviously enough evidence to remove the man and not only remove him, but remove his right to even say mass.

All of you are too wrapped up with who I am. I pose questions and just want others to acknowledge that they may not know the man. This is my last comment.

I'm not "wrapped up" with who you are. I was just asking for a little clarification on your comments indicating Father John has hurt "many" people and treated them like "dirt" as these are strong statements. I'm sorry you felt uncomfortable with my questioning. I appreciate you being an advocate of people who are victims.

To the "Holy Spirit" I CAN judge people on their merits and character that I have been exposed to....and so can everyone on Earth. You have your opinion and I have mine.

The odd thing I thought while reading your comments was how much passion you put into your material, how judgemental it was, and yet, it remained vague, extremely vague.

If he hurt you and your family, you should have made a call to the number posted in an earlier blog. Just remember, your perception will not always be that of others, so, what you feel was hurtful may be viewed as a misunderstanding or simply petty by others.

I simply stated the facts and my opinion of my interactions with Fr John, as did numerous others.

Please, state facts, opinions due to interactions, or make the call, but quit writing vague accusatory material in a effort to stir the pot.

Now, Mr. Boris,
How can I not comment back to you???

First of all, You know nothing of my merits. I grow more passionate when people like you entice me with a lack of knowledge of the psychology of the way people think and behave.

Irregardless of your common sense, if I did share my stories of what I have seen... you-by the sound of the way you are so quick to judge-would not think those things were misunderstandings or petty. Of course, other people's perceptions are not the same as mine. That is why I posted. People need to use their heads and not their hearts.

I am not a petty person; however, I wonder if you are??? Just wondering. In addition, as long as you are judging I can write whatever I choose...So, please pick on someone worth picking on...because you obviously lack the common sense to merit conversation with me! You told me earlier to get a real hobby...why don't you make your hobby learning to REALLY pray and listen to the Holy Spirit in your life!

"Holy Spirit" You are correct, I don't know what merits you have achieved or what your capability is in the psychological arena. Common sense got me to the Senior Officer ranks....so, apparently I have been blessed in this area.

I, am cut and dry, and don't put up with any BS or dancing around the subject in the grey areas of life. I'm not picking on you, and if you feel that way, well, sorry about that, but that's my character....get to the point and keep it cut and dry andstate the facts. This bantering isn't what I logged onto this sight for...I simply wanted to support Fr John based on my interactions and judgement of his character.... and so you have it.

The one thing we can agree on is that people need to use their heads, so, let us leave it at that. By the way, what is your occupation? Just curious.

Fly safe "Holy Spirit", JB

It is very interesting how the people who come in and say "don't judge" are the ones that tend to be the most judgemental in their comments. I would also venture to say that calling yourself "Holy Spirit" displays a lack of balance and might border on blasphemy. I'll leave that b/wn "holy spirit" and his God. Having said that Fr. John is a good and wonderful person (he is human as opposed to the real Holy Spirit), a solid spiritual leader and a true humanitarianm, and I will support him publicly and privately. I have absolutely no qualms voicing my support . I am convinced the charges will be unfounded. Just because someone accuses you of something or tries to define you doesn't mean it's true. Freedom of speech is everyone's right - not just the right of those that would like to support the defamation of character that we have seen. It is everyone's responsiblity to do the right thing and to be our brother's keeper. And yes...we do pray for the less fortunate, the confused and those that are lost in their lives.

Gabi, Funny how he has been defrocked as of this last week...these things don't just happen for no reason...

Holy Spirit is only who lives in my heart and if you had read what I wrote...you would understand that I am not judging-I'm stating facts, numbers, and saying to be compassionate towards the victims...I speak through my faith not through ignorance...

Holy Spirit, I don't find it "funny' that he was defrocked.I do find it odd that you don't mention the fact that the police said there was no proof of any misconduct on Fr.John's behalf.It is also odd that you don't mention that the Church paid off Steve Freeland and Dino.The church has denied doing so,but that is a lie.The only people I see telling half truths and lies are you and the church.

It seems that another challenge our faith community has is the different standards of "proof" and the actions/ramifications of each. In a criminal case where as punishment your life, liberty and property may be at stake, the standard is "beyond a reasonable doubt". In a civil case where pproperty and other sanctions are at stake, the standard is "preponderance of evidence." In light of the US/global church scandals and in accordance with preexisting Baltimore Archdiocese policy (look up "STAND" training), there is the condition of "credible evidence".

((I can make no call on "guilt or innocence", "culpability" or whatever as I have not and will not see the evidence))

I know of people voting with their pocketbooks and their feet, asking if we can get more information from downtown and more. By the same token, for months if not years I've seen families place a single dollar in the church collection basket, even taking change! If people decide to vent their anger at the Church or Archdiocese, expect a worship community "death spiral" as we would not be able to afford a Music Director and other ministerial niceties.

Of course, we also have those who, however sadly, painfilly or regretfully, respect the authority of the Holy Father and the Archbishop of Baltimore and trust that the Holy Spirit has guided their actions.

For those in attendance at the 10 AM Mass on June 13th, it was I who said the first (and loud) AMEN after Father Frank's superb homily. We have been through much pain and suffering, moving on will not be easy but carry on we must.

"A PGK"

I cannot believe this. It looks like no legal action has been taken so far, so I'm wondering if the civil case was dismissed as without merit. If this is so, the archdiocese owes it to Fr John to restore his good name. Why are there no informational updates?

Why is the testimony of career criminals believed to be more "credible" than the word of a war hero and a faithful priest? If Fr John denies the charge, you can bet the mortgage it's not true.

There was also innuendo made by the music director at his last parish.

"Inuendo" is not the mark of truth.

You are so right Ms. Harrington.

Everyone should consider the teachings of the Church before they speak.

2479 Detraction and calumny destroy the reputation and honor of one's neighbor. Honor is the social witness given to human dignity, and everyone enjoys a natural right to the honor of his name and reputation and to respect. Thus, detraction and calumny offend against the virtues of justice and charity. (Catechism of the Catholic Church)

Witness, where do you get your information, people were paid off, innuendo by music director?

Corporal
John Thomas Wielebski
Marine Corps
For service as set forth in the following:

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John Thomas Wielebski (MCSN: 2201169), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 23 May 1968, a squad from Company A was establishing a night ambush in the vicinity of DaNang when two satchel charges were thrown into its position by the enemy and seven Marines were wounded by the ensuing explosions, including Corporal Wielebski. Rapidly assessing the situation, and ignoring the intense pain of his own injury, Corporal Wielebski quickly deployed his men to defensive positions and directed their fire against the enemy. After ensuring that the wounded had received medical care, he obtained a radio and, after informing the company command post of the situation, requested a reaction force. Constantly advising the relief force of the tactical situation, he succeeded in guiding it to his position, thereby obtaining vital assistance for his besieged unit. By his courage, superb leadership and unfaltering devotion to duty, Corporal Wielebski inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Father John is truly a wonderful person and not capable of any such allegations of sexual misconduct. He paved the way for many to the Lord. Was Father John arrested? Was Father John put on trial? No, he was swept away in the night with no news for a month and then we hear some tales of misconduct - kept away for longer and then defrocked. Perhaps we have other motives at play in the corporate world at the Archdiocese of Baltimore, when Father John asked Bishop Rosanski's niece to step down from teaching 8th grade CCD because of complaints from student's parents of her treatment towards the children. Perhaps we need the parish to be Hispanic and the Bishop is the Hispanic Vicar - the Hispanic population is far greater than the American in that parish. I believe there could be any number of agendas at play here and know that if in a company or a business when someone doesn't care for you and wants you gone eventually you will be gone just like any business or company. Father John has brought many gifts to Resurrection and I pray for his personal peace and that he know how much he gave to us and how much we love him in spite of the enemy. That is the challenge before us to take what Father John taught us and live productive, spiritual and joy-filled lives as he would want.

Well, I have to say I'm glad no kid of mine has entered the priesthood. It's not a great come-on, shafting a good and faithful man just to get revenge, avoid possible attempts at frivolous lawsuits, or whatever mouse-brained reasons the diocese may have had.

I have spoken with Ft. John. He is doing as well as can be expected. Having known him for some time now, it has been very disheartening to hear such allegations. I believe with 100% certainty that he was made an example out of. FOr those who say he "could be guilty", "could be capable" - so could you and we would not know the wiser! There will be no criminal or civil case. I think everyone needs to be reminded that although a priest, he was also a human being who helped many people of the years. Not to say he hasn't pissed off anyone over the years either, myself included. However, I have nothing but adoration for him. He was there for me through my wedding, baptizing me children, losing children, etc. He's been over for dinner. Never one time have I ever thought something may be "off" and a mother would sense that. Becasue these allegations and accusations are made so publicly, it can no longer be swept under the rug so they have to take a stand. However, they were wrong on this one and it cost him his reputation and career. The church searched for more victims throughout this whole ordeal and called friends of mine asking about their children and when they were altar servers, etc. They were UNABLE to find any "alleged victims", Usually these kind of behaviors do not start and stop. I will continue to pray for him as he begins a new journey in life and always wish him well. Remember - "people in glass houses should not throw stones" . NO one walking this earths surface is, so to get on here and stir the pot must delight you greatly. God would frown upon that :(

Again, I am glad that no one in my family is in the priesthood. I think we should discourage our children from serving in an institutuion that is so hard hearted and unjust as the Church has shown itself to be in so many recent events.
If Fr John reads this, I want him to know that he is always a welcome guest in our home.

Father John was the main reason I would go to church. He is a kind man who treated me with the greatest respect and and priest that I (after 45 years) could relate to and understand. He was there for me at a time when I was down and was there for my family as well. Until the allegations are proven I will never even think anything less of him. I went to Christmas Mass this past year and he wasn't there and it just wasn't the same. My kids always enjoyed seeing him at Mass and I hope that he returns to our Parish soon! My prayers will always be with him wherever he goes.