February 18, 2007

Dear Fellow Parishioners,

By now, most of you have either read or heard about the article that was published in the

February 4, 2007 issue of the Star Democrat and reprinted in the February 7, 2007 issue of the

Times Record.  The

article reports of a lawsuit brought against our pastor, Fr. Norman Carroll,

our parish, Bishop Michael Saltarelli, and our diocese.  

I cannot go into

detail about this legal action; however, I want to assure the parish of two

important points. First, our parish, through the diocese, is covered by an insurance policy that

offers specific protection in cases such as this.  

Second, and most importantly, I want to affirm the Parish Council’s complete faith in Fr. Carroll.  

St. Benedict/St. Elizabeth Parish is fortunate to have Fr. Carroll as its pastor and spiritual leader

of our Christian community.  

I ask that you continue to keep Fr. Carroll and our parish, as well as Bishop Saltarelli and our

diocese, in your prayers.  During the upcoming season of Lent, our parish will focus on the

theme of healing.  I encourage you to support the efforts of our Liturgy Committee and to gather

together in prayer with members of your parish family as we offer a Novena for Healing.  The

Novena began on Friday, February 16 at 6:15pm at St. Elizabeth Church and will continue for 9

consecutive weeks.  

Details about the novena are published in the parish bulletin.  

I am convinced that

we will continue to grow in faith and love as we support one another through

our actions and prayers.

Sincerely,

Ed Centofante

Executive Officer of Parish Council