Monday, November 9, 2015

John Corapi is back? Returned to Faith? Not Quite it Seems...

Matt Abbot wrote a post in September of this year claiming that troubled priest John Corapi may be returning or reconciling with the Church. I gave the news the benefit of doubt but after reflecting on it, I am skeptical.  We have not seen any evidence of Corapi's return.  After examining the available evidence surrounding Corapi, it seems that he  may not be returning to the faith after all.  Scandal is not a new thing in the Catholic Church.  The Church has faced many scandals since her creation in 33 A.D. First Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for 30 silver pieces. Next, Peter denied Christ three times while the other Apostles except John ran off and went into hiding.  This was just the beginning. Each century that followed presented even more scandals of different kinds.  Bishop against bishop, patriarch against patriarch, and pope against pope. From heresies to sexual misconduct and theft, the Church has experienced it all. 

During the pontificate of Saint Pope John Paul II the sex abuse scandal broke out and many fell including Cardinal law and the founder of the Legionaries of Christ who many saw as another Father Josemari Escriva of Opus Dei.  When Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was the Pope, his butler stole private documents and revealed them to the world. Today, a repeat took place with a monsignor and laywoman doing the same along with a priest revealing he is gay and with a partner.  Scandals will always happen anywhere.  Humans are fallen creatures.  This is why scandals do not phase me at all. When they do happen, I do not run and panic or cry out 'conspiracy!'  I pray for all those involved but acknowledge the facts of any scandal even if it brings me enemies or gets me banned from Facebook groups after fellow Catholics slander me (see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2015/11/saqqal-corapi-facebook-cult.html). One scandal which is still talked about today is that of John Corapi who was accused by a former employee for sexual misconduct and abuse of drugs as well as alcohol. The priest was immediately suspended as an investigation took hold on Ash Wednesday in 2011. In respond, many Catholics who were fans of his work were shocked.  Some believed the accusations without seeing the evidence, basing their decision on his previous life of drugs and sex abuse. Others reserved judgment until the facts came in; however, when they did come in, some of these still remained confident that Corapi was a victim of some conspiracy to silence him.  

The entire scandal is mysterious and mind-boggling. Corapi claimed to be innocent but never followed through with his defense. He claimed that there were factions in the hierarchy that wanted him to "be gone" but never named names.  Moreover, he went to the extreme of creating a pseudonym 'BlackSheep Dog' and even rebranded himself as such starting a website, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook accounts.  The name was even trademarked (see: http://tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=4803:o7idax.3.9). Corapi seemed to have branched away from Catholic ministry and started a business where he would speak to a "broader audience," as he put it. New images of Corapi appeared with a dyed beard, an expensive leather jacket looking nothing like his image of a religious order priest wearing a gray habit. His order, the Society of Our Lady of the most Holy Trinity kept accusing him of not conforming to their way of life.  Corapi claims that his order told him to support himself because they could not support his work; however, I have not found any evidence of this claim so we only have his word to go by. I tried to search the order's website but it is no longer operational see: www.societyofourlady.net.  From what I have found, the women religious part of the order does takes vows so I am assuming that the male one does as well.  If they do, then I do not see how an order would permit Corapi to have millions of dollars and live in a compound in Montana. This would clearly defy the vow of poverty. Corapi would only state this:


My Response Regarding Tuesday’s Press Release From SOLT.
Jul 7
Posted by The Black SheepDog 5:00 EST
.
I am going to answer in a simple, straight forward way what seem to me the main elements of the action taken against me by the Diocese of Corpus Christi and the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity.
Regarding my personal financial situation—From the earliest days (more than twenty years ago) the Founder of the Society of Our Lady, Fr. James Flanagan, encouraged me to support myself and the Church as well. He said they could not afford to support my ministry and me personally because of the unique nature of the mission. At every step of the way, through the entire past twenty years, the Society of Our Lady’s leadership knew of my financial independence. As Fr. Flanagan encouraged, I have supported SOLT and myself from ‘day-one.‘ I have never relied on the Society for shelter, clothing, transportation, medical care, or legal counsel and instead, using my history of success in business, set up my mission as any savvy business man would, meanwhile continuing to support the Society and many other Catholic Charities.
Regarding the charge of sexual impropriety—This song of greed has been sung many times before. I have never had any promiscuous or even inappropriate relations with her. Never.
Regarding the investigation—As standard practice, my legal counsel advised me not to cooperate with the investigation until I was able to determine that the Commission’s process was fair and I had adequate rights to defend myself. Questions that certainly qualify the validity of any legal case have never been answered by the so called “fact finding team.” They refuse to reveal, and therefore utilize, any of the so-called evidence perhaps because if ‘the bad guy’ were truly revealed it may be revealed that he is really not that bad. Clearly, as my legal counsel has portrayed, the evidence supplied by the accused (of which my counsel is not permitted access to) must not have any substance.
Regarding ‘hush money’—I never paid anybody off to remain silent. On two occasions there were standard severance agreements executed with former employees and independent contractors. These agreements contained very common non-disclosure provisions. Any attorney who would not include such provisions in such agreements would rightly be guilty of negligent and actionable conduct.
Regarding my resignation—I resigned because the process used by the Church is grossly unjust, and, hence, immoral. I resigned because I had no chance from the beginning of a fair and just hearing. As I have indicated from the beginning of all this, I am not extinguished! If I were to commit to the suggestion of the Society, then I would essentially crawl under a rock and wait to die. However, I can not deny this desire to share aspects of Truth and Hope with all those willing to hear. This is what I shall continue to fight for! Many are not going to appreciate this decision, and I respect that. For those who can accept it, onward!

Corapi seemed confident that he was innocent and a victim of a conspiracy. However, after a back and forth between himself and his order, Corapi filed a lawsuit against his accuser which I think destroyed his credibility see: http://jimmyakin.com/wp-content/uploads/RedactedCharge.pdf.  Not only was he committing detraction and going against everything he preached on, but he revealed that he had the accuser sign a confidentiality agreement with him.  She was paid $100,000 by Corapi. However, if she violated the agreement, she had to pay him back the $100,000.  Why would a Catholic priest need to do this? What did he want to remain quiet?  Red flags started to rise after this lawsuit.  Moreover, Corapi finally gave up after the order published a statement detailing his misconduct, they posted this:

TUESDAY, JULY 5, 2011
Press Release Concerning Fr John Corapi from SOLT Regional Priest Servant
July 5, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From: Rev. Gerard Sheehan, SOLT Regional Priest Servant Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Robstown, Texas
Fr. John A. Corapi submitted his resignation from the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity ("SOLT") early in June. SOLT is a Society of Apostolic Life of Diocesan Right with its regional office in Robstown, Texas.
While SOLT does not typically comment publicly on personnel matters, it recognizes that Fr. John Corapi, through his ministry, has inspired thousands of faithful Catholics, many of whom continue to express their support of him. SOLT also recognizes that Fr. Corapi is now misleading these individuals through his false statements and characterizations. It is for these Catholics that SOLT, by means of this announcement, seeks to set the record straight.
A woman, well known to Fr. John Corapi, mailed SOLT a signed letter detailing allegations of Fr. Corapi's sexual activity with adult women, abuse of alcohol and drugs, improper sacramental practices, violation of his promise of poverty, and other wrongdoing.
After receiving the allegation, SOLT formed a three person fact-finding team to ensure that it handled this matter in accordance with canonical norms. The team included a priest-canonist, a psychiatrist, and a lawyer. Two were members of religious orders, and one was a lay Catholic. Two were men, and one was a woman. All three have national reputations and substantial experience in ecclesiastical processes related to priest disciplinary issues.
As the Society was engaging this team, Fr. Corapi filed a civil lawsuit against his principal accuser. He contended that she had defamed him and breached her contract. The contract, according to Corapi's lawsuit, contained a provision binding the woman to silence about him. He offered the woman $100,000 to enter this agreement.
SOLT's fact-finding team subsequently learned that Fr. Corapi may have negotiated contracts with other key witnesses that precluded them from speaking with SOLT's fact-finding team. Many of these witnesses likely had key information about the accusations being investigated and declined to answer questions and provide documents.
When the fact-finding team asked Fr. Corapi to dismiss the lawsuit, to forbear from foreclosing his mortgage, and to release her and other individuals from their contractual obligations to remain silent about him, he refused to do so and, through his canonical advocate, stated: "It is not possible for Father Corapi to answer the Commission's questions at this time."
SOLT's fact-finding team has acquired information from Fr. Corapi's e-mails, various witnesses, and public sources that, together, state that, during his years of public ministry:
He did have sexual relations and years of cohabitation (in California and Montana) with a woman known to him, when the relationship began, as a prostitute; He repeatedly abused alcohol and drugs; He has recently engaged in sexting activity with one or more women in Montana; He holds legal title to over $1 million in real estate, numerous luxury vehicles, motorcycles, an ATV, a boat dock, and several motor boats, which is a serious violation of his promise of poverty as a perpetually professed member of the Society.
SOLT has contemporaneously with the issuance of this press release directed Fr. John Corapi, under obedience, to return home to the Society’s regional office and take up residence there. It has also ordered him, again under obedience, to dismiss the lawsuit he has filed against his accuser.
SOLT's prior direction to Fr. John Corapi not to engage in any preaching or teaching, the celebration of the sacraments or other public ministry continues. Catholics should understand that SOLT does not consider Fr. John Corapi as fit for ministry.
Father Sheehan will not be available for comments as he is attending the SOLT General Chapter from July 5-23.
Posted by SOLT Webmaster at 1:58 PM 
 - http://soltnews.blogspot.com/2011/07/press-release-concerning-fr-john-corapi.html

After this, Corapi vanished. His accounts were removed, his videos deleted. The new business rebranded as "The BlackSheep Dog" all disappeared as mysteriously as it appeared. EWTN and other Catholic outlets immediately pulled his content. The whole thing left fans wondering what happened. I tend to give people the benefit of the doubt and was hoping Corapi would have been cleared; however, Corapi ran out of defenses. The fact that he did not follow through with his defense, his overall behavior and comments convinced me that he had to be guilty of the things he was accused of.  We live in a society where people are innocent until proven guilty. If Corapi felt he was innocent, he would have won any case against him. If the statement by his order was false, he could have sued the SOLT order for defamation of character and libel, but he did not.  He chose to disappear into the sunset, so to speak.  Moreover, what of the evidence that the investigation found (texts, photos, financial records etc)?  Also, many people do not know that Corapi was apparently arrested in Sacramento, California in 1999 for drugs and drinking under the influence. Note that in a statement defending himself, he never addressed the charges made against him regarding sex with women in California.  

This is what I found when I searched for his arrest record:







As you can see, an arrest record does exist under the name "John A. Corapi."  Despite this and other court records, I really do not understand why some Catholics feel the need to think that Corapi is being targeted.  He brought this upon himself and, unfortunately, paid the price.  Nevertheless, his order welcomed him back, but he chose to remain in his compound.   If it is true that his order told him to support himself and did not monitor his finances as he claimed in a statement, that is still not a reason to live lavishly.  Not all priests take vows, but Canon law still states that they must live simply and not live in a way that "smacks of worldliness" or engage in trade/commerce  (Can. 282, Can. 286).  So Corapi should not have been allowed to own boats, expensive vehicles, homes etc nor run a business.  

Moreover, a priest must have faculties to work in an area (Can. 265, Canon 745).  He cannot just up and leave, move wherever he wants and work as a priest.  The local ordinary must be notified via letter from his current ordinary. There is no solid reason for Corapi to have been allowed to live on his own.  Why did he choose community life if he was going to live a solitary one?  Mistakes were made on both sides in my opinion.  This is a big problem in religious orders.  They do not keep track of their members.  We have seen how many took advantage of this and abused minors.  Moreover, Corapi prided himself on being a priest but he made some comments that put down the very core of the priesthood, the Holy Eucharist: 

"I didn't do very much of that, quite honestly, in the twenty years that I did minister.  My particular mission was speaking, and writing, and teaching—not so much within the sacraments, but outside of them, in conjunction with them.  What I'm going to be doing in the future is pretty much the same thing . . . "

The comments above were made by Corapi when he was suspended.  He seemed to not care at all about his suspension and stated that his work was "speaking, writing and teaching."  In reality, a priest's main task is to administer the Sacraments (Catechism 1551 -53).  It seems based on his statement that Corapi saw the priesthood as a career, not a vocation from God.  This makes sense in light of what I discovered. I found Corapi listed in the social network for professionals Linked In.  He is listed as a writer and speaker and is apparently doing this to support himself which is what he said he would do "in the future" after his suspension, see:






The photos above are on the account for Linked in which appears via a search using "John Corapi" or "Dr. John Corapi."  Here we see a thinner and happier looking Corapi who apparently is earning a living off of public speaking and writing.  There is no visible evidence of Catholicism in what appears to be his home in the background.  No images of Jesus or statues of Mary and the saints. There is not even a medal or scapular on the person of Corapi.  Instead, there is what appears to be a tattoo on his chest and his personal belongings which appear to be motorcycle related.  Based on his profile, it seems like Corapi moved on from his life in the Church.  Meanwhile, his loyal fans are still wondering about him and attack anyone who acknowledges the facts of his fall from grace.  I think it is time for his fans to realize that he may not be returning.  Matt Abbot claims his sources are reliable but based on Corapi's Linked In page it seems that Corapi has found a new way of life outside of the Church and is content with it.  This is unfortunate indeed (his absence in the Church).  We may never know the entire story but based on the evidence we can assume that the charges against him are factual and that he had no defense for them and had to go off the radar, so to speak.

In any event, we must pray for him.  Hopefully, he is still Catholic and attends Mass while at the same time frequenting the Sacraments. His talks and retreats brought many people back to the faith. God works in mysterious ways. He often used the weak to do His will on Earth. Hopefully one day we may learn that Corapi did return and hopefully all Catholics will be waiting with open arms.  Only God is the judge.  Scandals like that of Corapi and others do affect many people.  However, we all must realize that what matters is the Catholic faith.  We cannot get caught up on personalities in the Church.  The Church does not create and should not create celebrities that we have to look up to.  We have Jesus as the one to look up to.  Turning a Catholic priest, nun or layperson into a celebrity is dangerous.  It goes against the first commandment.  Those that do this start to become delusional and do not perceive events properly. They see things via conspiracies and paranoia.  If your admiration for Corapi or anyone puts you at odds with the Church, other clergy or other Catholics then it is time for you to reflect on this and get psychological and spiritual help.  God forbid I should fall like Corapi, Albert Cutie or anyone else and those who grew in faith because of me find out, I would want them to succeed where I had failed. They should not abandon the faith because I may have messed up.  Moreover, they should not attack other Catholics for my sake.  It is all about Jesus, not me, Corapi, the Pope or anyone else.  Each one of us is Christ's servants and are not perfect.   Scandals can cause pain and doubt. We must channel those things and increase our faith.  As Ovid wrote, “Perfer et obdura, dolor hic tibi proderit olim. (Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.).”



UPDATE 1/26/2024 here: https://www.sacerdotus.com/2024/01/no-evidence-john-corapi-returned-to.html





Source:

http://www.renewamerica.com/columns/abbott/150831

http://www.sacerdotus.com/2015/09/father-john-corapi-is-back.html

http://monk2be.com/fr-john-corapi-has-returned-to-the-faith/

http://trcthoughts.com/2015/09/father-corapi-is-back/

https://veneremurcernui.wordpress.com/2015/09/02/father-corapi-backactive-in-the-priesthood/

http://www.pewsitter.com/view_news_id_213606.php

http://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/brief-update-on-fr.-john-corapi

http://www.creativeminorityreport.com/2015/09/fr-corapi-returning-to-faith.html

http://krestaintheafternoon.blogspot.com/2012/01/what-has-happened-to-fr-john-corapi.html

http://jimmyakin.com/2011/07/fr-corapis-lawsuit-against-accuser-full-text.html

http://catholicism.about.com/od/Catholic-Controversies/tp/The-Case-of-Father-John-Corapi.htm

http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/father-john-corapi-resigns-from-solt

http://www.soltfiat.org/olmhtcs/

http://www.ewtn.com/vnews/getstory.asp?number=114254

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/fr.-corapis-order-finds-him-guilty/

http://catholicism.about.com/b/2011/07/07/father-corapi-responds-to-solt-i-am-not-extinguished.htm

http://www.redding.com/news/priest-accused-of-improper-behavior#comments

http://soltnews.blogspot.com/2011/06/official-solt-statement-on-behalf-of-fr.html

http://catholicism.about.com/od/Catholic-Controversies/tp/The-Case-of-Father-John-Corapi.htm


76 comments:

  1. This is so disappointing. He was a great defender of the faith. I believe pride was his fall.

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    1. It may have been, but he may have relapsed as well. This happens to addicts a lot. We need to pray for him to return and that the Church allow him to work in some capacity with caution of course so he will not fall again.

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    2. I just recently (2 days ago) came across John Corapi's youtube videos and they are fantastic. Not Dr. Hugh Ross or Fr. Fulton Sheen fantastic, but still very unique. I especially appreciate his Power of the Rosary. It hurts to see someone like him fall to either sin or false slander. Either way I think we can all acknowledge that someone as influential as he was is a wide open target on many fronts to the evil spirit. In one way or another it got to him and I pray that his soul finds its home again in Christ. For everyone else who is not John Corapi, it seems fitting to realize how powerful God's grace is, how free our will can be, and to be watchful. It is very possible Corapi was not meant to be a priest but an evangelist. But then again who is meant to be a priest? How do we judge the heart or conscious of a priest? We don't.

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    3. We must pray for priests. They are human and weak as well.

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  2. This is old news. Nothing current. Put up or shut up and stop perpetrating scandal.

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    1. Have you had your head in the sand all this time? A report was published in September of this year claiming that Corapi is returning. I did some investigating and found out what I posted here so that readers can be informed and not put their hopes up. That being stated, spare me your ignorance.

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    2. You produced no up to date conclusive journalistic information to dispute what Renew America has stated. At least they stated they have a "solid" source. What do you have? 5 year old regurgitation? Please..... provide a conclusive source and maybe someone will actually take you seriously..

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    3. Are you daft or trolling? Renew America can say they spoke to Jesus directly, only a naive person would take their word for it. I prefer to question and seek the facts myself. It seems that you have failed to understand my post. I retold the story for those readers who are not familiar with Corapi and then informed them what Corapi is doing now based on what I found. Do you know how writing works? When you write on a topic, you cannot assume everyone knows about it so you INTRODUCE it. Remember 'introduction, body and conclusion' from grade school?? Moreover, I posted Corapi's Linked In profile which links directly to Corapi himself. One cannot get anymore solid than this. If you have Linked In, you can message Corapi directly! It seems you skimmed through the post or do not have strong reading comprehension skills.

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    4. I'm not interested in assumptions but FACTS. IF they say they heard something from a RELIABLE source, that's more than you have to offer.

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    5. What part of I found Corapi's Linked In profile did you not understand? You can message him directly on there! Note: When journalists say they have a 'reliable source' but do not list it, they are not being factual. The media does it all the time when reporting on the Vatican or on politics. They say that they have a 'source' in the Vatican when in fact they do not. The use of the word tricks readers who are not astute into believing they have something solid. They did this a few months ago claiming the Vatican gave front row seats to a LGBT group during a papal audience citing a 'source.' It turned out to be false. So Renew America can claim what they want, but I found Corapi DIRECTLY and his profile shows that he is CURRENTLY working as a speaker and writer. He even has photos on there where he looks too secular to make a comeback to religious life. So it is your choice. You can ask Corapi directly on his own Linked In profile or you can believe someone who claims to have a 'reliable source' but does not list it. IF Corapi was returning, he would not have the Linked In page up showing his experience so others can hire him. Use some critical thinking skills and some common sense...

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    6. Linkd means nothing to me. I can have tons of crazy stuff online. That's not what defines me. You trust in ghosts far too much.

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    7. Trust in ghosts? Says the one who believes someone who simply wrote 'reliable source.' I actually found the former priest! Linked In does not get anymore reliable since it actually links to the person. You can actually email Corapi there silly. I even posted his most recent photos which RA's 'reliable source' apparently does not have access to. If you want to have your head in the sand, then by all means. Many readers have contacted me thanking me for posting an actual verifiable source that leads directly to Corapi. This post brought them some closure and shutting down hopes that innocence was viable.

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    8. You have nothing conclusive while regurgitating years old news, while NE has at least a stated reliable source. Fr. Corapi taught orthodox Catholic Faith with clarity and certainty. I'll give the NE source a little tad more benefit, if its OK with you.

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    9. So what about linkdn? You sure you never saw a priest waiting whose appearance didn't quite match YOUR desired appearance.

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    10. Writers often retell a story before adding new additional information. I think we have been through this already. Many readers of mine never heard of Corapi, especially younger ones and atheists who often frequent my site. Therefore, I retold the story for those who do not know who he was and those who needed a bit of reminding... what happened, what was said, what did not happen and what was not said. I then pieced it together with the claim from RA that he is returning and showed the linked in profile which indicates Corapi is happy where he is at now. Readers are welcomed to make their own conclusions. However, based on the facts, I found it unlikely that he is returning. If he was, he would not have that linked in account up. Why would he if he was back in the order and does not need to be hired? The RA article sounds hopeful, but the 'reliable source' and the mysterious around it sounds suspicious. Again, readers can look at the link in and contact Corapi directly without coming across as 'stalkish' of course. Will he respond? I have no idea. However, I think we can agree that his personal link in profile trumps any third party 'reliable source.' I find it odd that the people at RA did not find it if they were so interested in Corapi's whereabouts, yet I easily did. Moreover. he is no longer 'fr. Corapi' since he resigned.. so (dr) John Corapi is his name now and is how he is referring to himself on his link in profile. Whether or not Corapi taught orthodox Catholic things is up for debate. Some liked him while others saw him as too stern, judgmental and puritanical which scared people away from Christ and the Church. I have heard stories (in person and via email) that he was rude in person and very picky with the sale of his products in regards to making profits. Someone had asked him at a conference (afterwards) if they could make a copy of his video to give to a lapsed Catholic relative, Corapi bluntly said "no" that it was stealing... that the guy needs to buy his own copy. Needless to say, the person asking became a lapse Catholic as well. Anyhow, to quote Pope Francis, "Who am I to judge?" We all have our faults. I am coming out with a book soon and of course would not allow piracy, but if someone wants to share the book with someone, I am not going to say "he/she has to buy her own." Seriously? Naturally, I cannot allow reproduction because someone might claim my work is their work and sue me as if I was the one that stole it, so I have to let copyright law protect me from that. However, my main intention is to promote the Catholic faith and not to create a brand or profits. I am skeptical that Corapi is returning as a priest preacher like before, but will continue to pray for him that he does return as a Catholic in some capacity.

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  3. I'm not interested in discussing this further. Scandalized a priest with no proof but here say is still a sin.

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    1. Oh you are 'one of those.' This priest scandalized himself and the proof was presented which forced him to vanish and go into hiding. Investigators sorted through his texts, emails and records. They discovered things unbecoming of a priest. Phone, email and property records do not lie and are not 'hearsay.' It is a sin to cover up for someone else's sin. You should know this if you are a so-called 'apologist.' See the catechism:

      1868 Sin is a personal act. Moreover, we have a responsibility for the sins committed by others when we cooperate in them: (1736)
      —by participating directly and voluntarily in them;
      —by ordering, advising, praising, or approving them;
      —by not disclosing or not hindering them when we have an obligation to do so;
      —by protecting evil-doers.

      If Corapi WAS innocent, he would have sued his accusers for defamation of character and libel. Rest assured if someone claimed that I did XYZ and it was false, I would not go into hiding. I would sue for defamation. Corapi did no such thing, perhaps because in court things would have been made even more public. He was clearly guilty. The proof showed it and his strange behavior showed his defense mechanism at work via displacement and denial. All we can do for him now is pray for him. Excusing him would be participating in his sins. Fr. Frank Pavone was accused of financial mismanagement and did not vanish. He fought the charges directly appealing to the Vatican and won. Had Corapi done this, perhaps his credibility would have been stronger. However, his disappearing act after the investigation revealed his misconduct destroyed him. So time for you to wake up Robert. Set the kool aid down and step out of that Corapi personality cult and back into reality in Christ's Catholic Church.

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    2. You don't have a shred of proof but here say. Watch out about spreading scandals that are false.

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    3. We have the proof. The investigations found his nude images via sexting on his phone, the text messages, emails, property records, arrest record detailing substance abuse etc. Neither a Catholic bishop, nor a religious order is going to make something so serious up. You have been brainwashed by Corapi and cannot think for yourself. Spit out the kool aid and accept reality. Phone records, nude images, text messages, Corapi's behavior etc do not lie. Bill Cosby is facing the same thing now. Bread crumb trails will lead back to whoever was eating the sandwich. Why do you think Corapi dropped his lawsuit against his accuser and refused to return to the priesthood and his order? He knew a battle in court would divulge the details more publicly. His only defense was to disappear and hope people forget him. Instead of excusing him and resorting to denial which goes against truth, accept the truth and pray for him.

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    4. If you mean Papal, then yes, the facts are that solid. I am not sure if you are American, but in America and most nations we have the principle that people are innocent until proven guilty. This means that people are innocent until a case is made showing otherwise. Corapi failed in this regard. He claimed his innocence at first, vowed to fight on and then disappeared when the investigators brought forth the evidence. This speaks a lot to his lack of innocence. If Corapi was truly innocent, he could have sued his superiors and the woman for libel, defamation, unlawful termination etc. What would you do? Suppose you worked in X company and a lady accuses you of misconduct. Do you say you are innocent for a few months and then stop and disappear when investigators claim to find evidence against you? If you were truly innocent you will continue to fight on to prove your innocence right? For an order etc to state that they have his text messages, nude images etc, then that is a big accusation. Corapi would have won a defamation case easily if they were making up charges and he could prove it. Instead, he ran off and disappeared. He trademarked 'The Black Sheep dog" for nothing. Why are you in denial about this? It makes no sense. Try to think critically and not let your loyalty speak for you. Ask yourself: What would you do if you were innocent and your accusers claimed to have evidence against you? Would you run off and hide or would you fight till the end?

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    5. You don't have facts but sketches. Vague sketches of a "wannabe" truth sayer.

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    6. Robert, to his credit, I would have to say that he has 'some'...and perhaps even 'a lot' of factual information...but not 'all' the information needed to form a judgment. Would you agree? My contention has always been: what is the end goal here? What's the point? It simply does not make any difference whether Fr Corapi is guilty or innocent...does it? It doesn't change his great accomplishments one bit! My concern is the 'unbalanced' assessment toward Fr Corapi. Yes, he made some bad choices...it appears. We all do!
      If the writer acknowledges Fr Corapi's accomplishments 'balanced' with his speculation that he did wrong...than he might get a lot more 'listeners'! No?

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    7. The information is based on what is available. Again, no order is going to remove someone without evidence of wrongdoing. One does not have to be a rocket scientists to know this. There is more than enough information to make a judgment that he was in fact guilty of what his order accused him of. However, this post is not meant to place judgment on anyone. It was meant to investigate a claim from Abbott that a 'reliable source' claimed Corapi was returning. This is why this post has been extremely popular. It is objective and presents the facts with hard evidence. Robert seems like the type that would jump off a cliff if told to by Corapi.

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  4. Great article. Corapi was from the start mainly aimed at turning his ordination into a revenue stream. He set up 50/50 donation splits when he presented on the catechism, early on in parishes, and then got into packaging himself as straighter-than-thou, despite his personal crookedness, to sell videos and audio materials. Don't forget his "special forces" claims - when in fact he was a clerk/typist in USAREUR. Don't overlook his order's findings of "sacramental abuse". He not only didn't care to say mass - claiming that his "ministry" went in other, directions, which turn out to be more profitable - but casting aside the most fundamental mission of priestly ordination. This guy was full of himself through the entire period - until he implodes into raving irrationality. Black, Black, Black sheepdog. At least he picked the right color from the spectrum to describe himself. So faithful to the Church of Rome, so devoted to such virtues as obedience, that he ignores the direction of his superiors - and asserts resignation to avoid further inquiry into the truth. Oh, btw, check into what "drug" he was found in possession of. It will surprise many - particularly because it's a substance that celibates don't need.

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    1. It is sad indeed how he managed his priesthood. What is even sadder is the many who still believe he was a saint and attack the Church for what happened. I was attacked myself simply for telling the truth of what was found. One Facebook group removed me and its founders blocked me only because another fanatical member lied about me. One is currently emailing me making me out to be the bad one while Corapi is immaculate. It is disturbing indeed the psychological cult-ish affect this guy had on naive and susceptible Catholics. I agree with you on the 'black sheep dog' thing. It was when he did this act that I realized he was hiding something. I pray for him and hope he reconciles with Christ and the Church. I also pray for his 'fans' who are in denial about his sins.

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  5. I pray only that he finally turns to the sacraments and obtains grace and forgiveness while it can still make a difference to his final fate. But along with the other elemental forces of the universe, electromagnetic energy, gravitation, and the strong and weak forces in a nucleus, the power of human self-justification is an amazingly powerful force that can overcome common sense and any morality. This is what he must overcome. I regret that you were so attacked. I was attacked in many ways in different places by this rabid, deluded hoard, too, and Corapi himself personally blocked me from his Facebook page before his final resignation. He could only countenance those who gave him unquestioning support. His followers, truly a crazed lot, are the same and strike at everyone who doesn't see things their way. I've seen posts in which they've sent him certified mail, return receipt requested, just to get his attention and maybe an autograph on the green signature card. Please keep on telling the truth as you learn it.

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    1. Stop judging lest ye be judged

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    2. Pray is all we can do for now. He has clearly moved on. The attacks against me showed how brainwashed these people are that they would attack a future priest over one who failed. It speaks much to their lack of understanding of the faith. If they see the Catholic faith only via this priest, then they have failed as Catholics. Sorry to learn that he blocked you. I never followed any of his accounts because at the time I did not have social networking accounts and usually I tend to avoid those cult personality types. Corapi tapped into the fears of many just like Trump is doing now. Those who are not mentally stable will fall for that brainwashing.

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    3. Robert, sharing one's experience is not judging.

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    4. You know him? You can't share details that are scandalous unless you knew Fr Corapi and you don't.

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    5. That is silly. One does not have to know someone else to share or discuss scandalous details that are public and verifiable. If people had your warped view of journalism, there would be no news ever. To date, neither you or any other Corapi fanatic have presented evidence exonerating him. All I hear about is 'conspiracy' and blanket statements that he was innocent. That nonsense does not work with the rational. We want facts and evidence, not your desperation to defend your idol that you will say anything and ignore the truth. As Shannon Alder stated, “I have always found it odd that people who think passive aggressively ignoring a person is making a point to them. The only point it makes to anyone is your inability to articulate your point of view because deep down you know you can’t win."

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    6. Hmmm...are you a journalist by chance? That would explain the need for sensationalistic reporting. Journalists 'need' sensationalism to maintain and audience. 'Balanced' reporting, after all, would be boring! A good journalist must 'peak' someone's interest...no 'a lot' of interest in fact. That's what makes them thrive.
      Once again, I 'see' judgmentalism in your choice of words: "exonerating"...
      I don't think that a single person believes that it is quite possible that Fr Corapi fell from grace. How could anyone not believe so? It simply does not matter whether he did or not...that's the whole point! If he fell from grace, it doesn't mean that all his good woks are negated or null and void. It only means that he 'fell from grace'. That's all there is to it. No big deal. We 'all' fall from grace. Jesus said that He didn't come for those who don't need a physician...but for those who do. The 'conspiracy' that people speak about has nothing to do with his guilt or innocence...but rather what brought down as is evidenced in his departure. God alone knows his heart. I think that he has a lot better chances of making it to heaven than I do. I've failed miserably in my life to respond to God's call...compared to Fr Corapi. At least he answered the call and gave it his best shot...don't you think? Your use of the word 'rational' scares me a little. A bit 'secular' I think...for a seminarian. Black and white is a good foundation...but wait until you begin to see in 'full color'...it's awesome!!!
      This discussion is NOT about winning or losing...is it? We already know how the end turns out: God wins! It says so at the end of the bible. The 'battle' that is ensuing is pretty frightening though. Predictions are coming true right before our very eyes: "priests will turn against priests; bishops against bishops"! If you are going to enter into the 'brotherhood' of priests, I would suggest that you be very careful about placing judgment on any of them! No?

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    7. Actually, I think that Robert is right on with his question and statement. He probably knows Fr Corapi a lot more than you do Michael. Fr Corapi revealed so very much about himself and his struggles/challenges over the course of his ministry. Many of his listeners know him far greater than you can possibly understand, unless of course, you did some 'catching up' and do a whole lot more research about him. It probably doesn't interest you to do so, but it would most definitely have hearings on your 'judgment'!

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    8. If you see the about me tab you can see my academic record. Journalism is one of my areas of study. That being stated, I do know how to do this work. My choice of words fits the scenario. Moreover, I never used the word 'exonerating' in the post, only in my previous comment. These comments are not part of the post content. They are replies to people who commented. You claim that it does not matter whether Corapi fell or not, yet you are attracted to this post. If you did not care, then you would not bother to post a comment. Also, none of my posts criticize Corapi's work so I really do not understand why you keep mentioning them. I never wrote that we should have a bonfire and burn his content like back in the day with book burning. My posts only deal with the facts, what I found and those blog posts out there who have brought him up recently. This is how it started. 1) I came across blogs and Abbot's post claiming Corapi is returning and wrote a short post myself, see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2015/09/father-john-corapi-is-back.html. The post was popular. Thousands visited it daily. Some people emailed me asking if it was true that Corapi was returning so I did some investigating and found the LinkIn page and wrote this post showing what I found while at the same time retelling the drama. That is all I did. I did not wake up one morning and said, "let me write about Corapi." I reported what Abbot claimed first, then people asked if it was true so I took it upon myself to investigate and wanted to show people what I found. My readers can take from it whatever they want. These posts are more about, "is he returning or not" than anything else. I had to retell the story so readers who do not know about him can learn who this guy was and what happened in 2011. The word 'rational' should not scare you unless you are a fundamentalist. Aquinas, Augustine and other great minds of the Church were rational. Color is great, but black and white lets you see the underlying structure of an object. Color is an illusion of bending light. Black and white is what really is there. The 'winning' comment was in reference to Robert who seems to think there is a conspiracy against Corapi and that he is innocent. As for placing judgment on other priests and bishops, I avoid this. However, I have written opinion pieces where I voice my concern or disgust. This is why I sometimes get attacked by Catholics who admire Michael Voris. They expect me to use my content to attack the Pope, bishops etc. I will not do that. Instead, I will just give my opinion like I did with Pope Francis when he met with 2 gay men. I do not see any fruit coming from calling our people 'wicked' or creating gossip. Not once did you see me call Corapi a 'fraud' or 'con artist' etc. It is unnecessary, uncharitable and just plain mean.

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    9. If you see the about me tab you can see my academic record. Journalism is one of my areas of study. That being stated, I do know how to do this work. My choice of words fits the scenario. Moreover, I never used the word 'exonerating' in the post, only in my previous comment. These comments are not part of the post content. They are replies to people who commented. You claim that it does not matter whether Corapi fell or not, yet you are attracted to this post. If you did not care, then you would not bother to post a comment. Also, none of my posts criticize Corapi's work so I really do not understand why you keep mentioning them. I never wrote that we should have a bonfire and burn his content like back in the day with book burning. My posts only deal with the facts, what I found and those blog posts out there who have brought him up recently. This is how it started. 1) I came across blogs and Abbot's post claiming Corapi is returning and wrote a short post myself, see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2015/09/father-john-corapi-is-back.html. The post was popular. Thousands visited it daily. Some people emailed me asking if it was true that Corapi was returning so I did some investigating and found the LinkIn page and wrote this post showing what I found while at the same time retelling the drama. That is all I did. I did not wake up one morning and said, "let me write about Corapi." I reported what Abbot claimed first, then people asked if it was true so I took it upon myself to investigate and wanted to show people what I found. My readers can take from it whatever they want. These posts are more about, "is he returning or not" than anything else. I had to retell the story so readers who do not know about him can learn who this guy was and what happened in 2011. The word 'rational' should not scare you unless you are a fundamentalist. Aquinas, Augustine and other great minds of the Church were rational. Color is great, but black and white lets you see the underlying structure of an object. Color is an illusion of bending light. Black and white is what really is there. The 'winning' comment was in reference to Robert who seems to think there is a conspiracy against Corapi and that he is innocent. As for placing judgment on other priests and bishops, I avoid this. However, I have written opinion pieces where I voice my concern or disgust. This is why I sometimes get attacked by Catholics who admire Michael Voris. They expect me to use my content to attack the Pope, bishops etc. I will not do that. Instead, I will just give my opinion like I did with Pope Francis when he met with 2 gay men. I do not see any fruit coming from calling our people 'wicked' or creating gossip. Not once did you see me call Corapi a 'fraud' or 'con artist' etc. It is unnecessary, uncharitable and just plain mean. As for Robert knowing Corapi, I do not think he does. I may not know him personally, but was taught by someone who taught him and who is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist. We both share a common professor. :-)

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  6. Hatred begets hatred. There's no positive purpose for this post. Not one single statement is for the good and the welfare of souls. Good material for a movie like Spotlight though...and a real money maker!!!

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    1. What hatred? This is an investigative post which has been extremely positive. Many people who truly believed Corapi was innocent and have attacked Church leaders and other Catholics have woken up and accepted the truth. I have been congratulated by several both privately and on my social network profiles about this post. It has saved those souls who turned Corapi into a cult personality causing them to ignore Christ and His Church.

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    2. Robert, I think you are gullible or trolling Sac's page. I left the Church mainly because of Corapi. He was nothing but a fraud who lived off naive people like you. You need to wake up!

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  7. You would have to step out of the forest of hate...in order to 'see' the hate that you cannot see at this time. I could be wrong, but I am suspicious of the driving force that brought about your post. A 'well balanced' investigative report would present all of the facts...not just detrimental ones. Your 'investigative' report has a deep slant toward judgment of his character, his personhood, his intentions, and his very soul... The question I would pose to you is 'who' commissioned you to straighten out people that you 'think' or 'assume' worship Fr Corapi? The Holy Spirit? I don't think so. The Holy Spirit doesn't work that way...because the Holy Spirit knows hearts. No one in their right mind 'worships' Fr Corapi. Never did, never will. A lot of people admire him for his tremendous courage in speaking the truth at a time when most priests would not dare to do so...but that's all this so called 'cult' does...they admire his courage. When he preached, he did not preach heresy. He preached the truth and presented the actual teachings of the Catholic Church 'exactly' as they are...not twisted and watered down like many priests presented it...and still do. When you 'start' to recognize Fr Corapi's good works and present ALL the facts about him, people will benefit from your so called 'investigative' post. I pray that the God of my understanding will not be so harsh toward you when the day comes to face Him and the question that is posed to you is "why were you so harsh and judgmental toward my child, Fr Corapi"? It's NOT about his guilt or innocence since his fall from grace. It's about evaluating the entire person and the contribution that he has made to God's children who have been 'starving' and 'wanting' for the real Truth for so very long...which he delivered in his preaching! Don't be to quick to assume that the 'congratulations' that you are receiving both privately and on your social network profiles is a good thing! Like I said...hatred begets hatred! I didn't coin that phrase...Venerable Fulton J Sheen did!

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    1. I think you ARE wrong, with all respect of course. You are reading into a narrative that was not intended. This is perhaps because you are filtering the post based on your cognitive bias which is demonstrable in your prose. I have no such bias, so I can objectively write posts like this which presents nothing but the facts that are available. Moreover, I even found more details that no one else has and simply reported them leaving readers to make up their mind. As for a slant and judgment of character, that is YOUR inference, not what the post actually states. I specifically wrote:

      'In any event, we must pray for him. Hopefully, he is still Catholic and attends Mass while at the same time frequenting the Sacraments. His talks and retreats brought many people back to the faith. God works in mysterious ways. He often used the weak to do His will on Earth. Hopefully one day we may learn that Corapi did return and hopefully all Catholics will be waiting with open arms. Only God is the judge.'

      Moreover, this post was not meant to 'straighten out' anyone. I have no idea where you got that from. Perhaps you should reread the post carefully and set aside any bias so you can see that you are mistaken. As for "being commissioned," I am a writer and have freedom of speech and expression. There is no need for me to be commissioned in order to exercise the aforementioned. What troubles me and many others is this 'cult' that has formed around Corapi. When people attack Church leaders and one another over a priest who is not in good standing, that is a red flag of something psychologically serious going on. I was a member of a group on Facebook supporting Corapi until one member lied about me. In response, I contacted the administrators and they blocked me instead of dealing with the member who was lying. Others noticed and left the group and started to realize that there is a real 'cult' surrounding Corapi. It reminded me of the movie "The Mist" where a mysterious fog overtakes a town and residents get trapped in a supermarket. Among them is a fanatical Christian lady who starts to link the mist with apocalyptic readings in the Bible. At first, people mock her as being crazy, but then a cult starts forming around her. She begins to order people to kill others and sacrifice them to the beasts in the mist. Anyone who criticizes this lady gets killed or released to the beasts in the mist. That is what that Facebook group felt like. It was disturbing. Lastly, in the quote above of my own post, I clearly stated that I recognized the good work Corapi did, so again, you are either being willfully ignorant of my post or did not bother to read it carefully. As I stated in a previous comment, my post has helped many to see the truth and finally let go. My email, Facebook and Twitter direct message boxes are full of messages thanking me for this post and a more recent one. Telling the truth is not hatred. It can hurt, yes; but it is not hatred. I agree with you that it is not about his guilt or innocence, but as Catholics one of the most important things we do is recall our sins. We remind ourselves that we are sinners at Mass every day. It is this reality check that allows for change and spiritual growth. It is troublesome to know that many laypeople exist out there who think Corapi was a target of the Church which is complete nonsense. They deserve to be taken out of that spiral of deception and realize that the Church and her leaders had nothing to do with Corapi's fall and that it was he who made some (pardon my expression) stupid decisions. I also put blame on his SOLT order as well for not keeping an eye on him and for leaving him to live freely and not in community. Again, the truth is not hatred. Not once did I call him a 'con artist' or 'fraud.'This would be hate. Satan is the father of lies and those who persist in living in lies serve him. I prefer to tell the truth even if it ruffles some feathers.

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    2. Absolutely right, Johnny. ;)

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    3. John, Corapi never taught any truth. He was a fraud that led many people away from the Church. I left the Church because of him. It is people like Michael who give me a bit of hope that the Church may be valid after all. Corapi was a charlatan who suckered people like you and Robert into giving him your hard earned money. Corapi was once a rich man who had it all. He lost it due to vice. It's clear to me and many people that he used his role as a priest to bring back his fortune. He saw his 'ministry' as a way to rebuilt his assets. Now he is living on a compound with vehicles of all kinds, personal lawyers and what not. You should be ashamed of yourself attacking Sac. Sac is 110% more than man and priest that Corapi would ever have been. Corapi is not worth stepping into Sac's shoes. You and Robert should stop trolling his page and get a life.

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  8. I think You say that I am "reading into a narrative that was not intended". Are you saying that you know the intentions of your heart? Interesting. I don't make that claim about myself. I 'hope' that my intentions are good...but I'm never truly certain. Jesus said "judge not", and so I don't 'judge' myself. Most...if not ALL sin is UNINTENTIONAL...would you not agree? If not, why did Jesus say "Father forgive them for they know not what they do?" As for what your statement reads - "his talks and retreats brought many people back to the faith...(and then you say)...God works in mysterious ways". No mystery at all really. His talks were dynamic. He spoke the truth courageously. And his talks STILL bring many people back to the faith! That's the part that you refuse to recognize! You insist on 'throwing out the baby with the bathwater' type approach. That is just sinister...but I don't think you do this intentionally. If I did, I would have to believe you are working for the enemy, knowingly. The enemy uses us often...unbeknown to us. That was made perfectly clear when Jesus told Peter "get behind me you satan"! Calling the followers of Fr Corapi's legacy a cult...is somehow NOT trying to straighten out people? If not, than what's the point? Yes...you are a writer...and enjoy freedom of speech and expression. However, you have set up 'clear' rules for your post...which is good...but it made me wonder if you would even post my remarks. Honestly, I'm a bit surprised that you have posted them thus far. That is a good sign.
    Your analogy about "The Mist", is alright...but I find it narrow minded and for the purpose of justifying your judgement of Fr Corapi and the 'cult' that you decided that has formed and surrounded him. There's s-o-o-o many good books and movies about the corruption within the hierarchy of the Catholic Church...and yet you 'choose' not to accept that it is quite possible that some 'powerful' entities within the church went after and set up Fr Corapi. I'm not talking about murder, which many believe quite possibly happened to John Paul l...I'm talking about conspiring to 'take out' Fr Corapi aiming at his own 'weakness(s)'. It's not hard to comprehend really...for anyone who is willing to see the picture 'clearly'. Fr Corapi ruffled a lot of feathers everywhere...BUT nowhere as much as priests and bishops who were 'taken to task' as a result of his preaching. As much as Fr Corapi 'thought' he knew the strength and power of the enemy...I believe that he underestimated the enemy and his tactics...which led to his downfall. I think that YOU, and a whole lot of seminarians can take a hard lesson from the entire story of the rise and fall of Fr Corapi...that is...if you want to take on the enemy full strength.
    I understand that the Catholic Church is kind of 'new' to you, as a former atheist, but don't let the 'honeymoon' phase of your Catholicism blind you to the very real pharisaical reality of 'some' members of the hierarchy! "The smoke of satan has entered the Church", Pope Paul Vl so eloquently stated! Yes, telling the truth can and does hurt...and it is not hatred. It's 'ridiculous' to look at the Catholic Church with rose colored glasses and in such a 'pristine' way so as to say "It is troublesome to know that many laypeople exist out there who think Fr Corapi was a target of the Church which is complete nonsense". (to quote your words)

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    1. No, you are saying that. Based on your interpretation of my post, I believe you are reading into a narrative that was not intended due to your cognitive bias. Remember, I wrote this, not you. Therefore, I know what I intended, you do not. Moreover, I believe you are cherry picking Jesus' words and misconstruing them. When Jesus said, "judge not," He was not referring to all judgments. We all make judgments. When you see dark clouds, you make a judgment whether to go outside or not. This has nothing to do with sin. What Jesus referred to with the "judge not" statement is in regards to judging the state of salvation in a soul. For example, if you say to someone, "you are gay so you are going to hell." That is judgment. Moreover, "forgive them for they know not what they do" was in reference to those who instigated the death of Christ. My statement that "God works in mysterious ways" is in reference that He uses the weak to do His will. Even Judas was a disciple. Moreover, you may find Corapi's talks dynamic, but I found them to be full of hyperbole and geared towards a specific audience; particularly, right wing enthusiast. He did teach truth when he quoted from the Church's teachings, but I would not call all of his work 'truth.' That is a bit of a stretch. As for still bringing people back to the faith, do you have evidence for this? EWTN and other outlets stopped airing and selling his content so I do not see how anyone else can benefit from his products since he is no longer speaking in a Catholic capacity.

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    2. As for working with the enemy, remember, Satan works with liars and deceivers. We already know the facts, so we must accept them and move on. This is why EWTN etc moved on and do not want anything to do with Corapi. He was erased. Psalm 101:4 comes to mind, "I will have nothing to do with a perverse person; I will not permit evil." All we need is the Pope, Sacraments, and sacred deposit. Anything or anyone else is just an amenity we can do without. I find it interesting that you classify those who admire Corapi as "followers of Fr Corapi's legacy." I think that speaks enough as to why I and many others refer to this following as a cult. Therefore, there is nothing further to say on that. Statements and behaviors speak loud enough, so to speak. As for comments on posts, I will allow them as long as they fit the criteria I highlighted. The screening is to prevent trolls from coming here to disrupt. I still see IP addresses in case I have to press charges against harassers though. But I am open to honest debate. The analogy about "The Mist" movie was not about Corapi, but about the Facebook group. See what I meant about you reading into a narrative that was not intended?? :-) I disagree that there is corruption in the Church. The Church is protected by God. There are bad people in the Church yes, but this is how it is supposed to be. The wheat and the weeds are supposed to be together (Matthew 13:24-30). I believe some people in the Church play politics, but what happened with Corapi was his doing. Albert Cutie tried the same tactic claiming gays in the Church wanted him out, but he eventually gave up when more evidence of his lover came out via photos etc. What Corapi did was on him and him alone. There was no conspiracy. Think: Why would his order want him back if they wanted him gone? That is like if I was a bishop and you were a priest and you say I wanted you gone while I am asking you to return to the cathedral. Things did not add up with Corapi's story. I can tell you first hand that no priest or bishop cared about what Corapi had to say. He was not a threat to anyone so I really do not understand where people are getting this from. Many seminarians I know never even heard of Corapi. Only those who have access to EWTN learned of him. I learned about him after I received a tape of his conversion from Catholicity. Later on, I saw him on Mother Angelica's show and then a few of his broadcasts. As for learning a lesson, I agree with you. This is why I use a pen name to write instead of my own name. I do not want to become a 'cult personality.' However, Corapi's downfall may be his 'prodigal son' movement, who knows? I think he will be back if he truly loved the Church. As for the 'honeymoon' face, what honeymoon!? I have seen all kinds of crazy things in many parishes. As a matter of fact, I am going to write a book on them to hopefully encourage Catholics out there who may have faced similar things and felt discourage. I will detail what happened and how I handled it. Just trust God is all I can tell you. No one has all the answers. We have to pray for one another. We all rise and fall. Prayer is the only thing that will keep us afloat. Pray a Rosary a day for Corapi and all priests out there who have fallen and those who are living double lives now as I write this.

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    3. I don't understand how anyone can be so sure of their 'intentions' as I said before, but I'll take you for your word...that you 'know' what you intended!
      I think that you might be 'using' the word judge inappropriately. To judge is to decide guilt or innocence. That's ultimately God's job not ours. You are probably trying to say 'assess' in so far as 'dark clouds'.
      "those who instigated the death of Christ"?...Catholicism 101: we all did, didn't we???
      You would not call all of Fr Corapi's work truth? Now we're getting somewhere. That's a very bold statement. In fact it's on par with the many people who believe that Pope Francis is a heretic. If you are aware of any specific teaching that Fr Corapi gave that was not 'truth'...PLEASE...tell me what he preached that wasn't truth - by all means! I need to know what the basis of that statement is for my own personal salvation! If Fr Corapi preached something 'other than' the truth...that's big news indeed...and the entire world needs to know it!
      Evidence? Yes. His quotes are still used everyday on social media and his cds as well as dvds are owned by countless individuals. I hope that you do not 'worship' EWTN, unknowingly as many people do. EWTN is not operating as it was intended to be by its foundress...which is a whole different matter!

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    4. I like that quote from Psalm 101:4. Thank you for that! For the reason cited in that quote I would never consider attending a talk by Fr Corapi...unless it was for the express purpose of explaining his downfall and/or reconciliation. Why would I? I would think that anyone in his/her right mind would feel the same way too! That being said...I 'still' listen to his preaching and enjoy his quotes about God, the church, and truth. I'm mature enough 'not' to discard the good...along with the bad.
      I knew very well the analogy intended by The Mist. I simply did not buy into it. Yes, of course I agree that there are those who 'blindly' follow. Guess what? We ALL suffer from the same condition to one extent or another: blindness! Anyone who 'thinks' they see the (entire) light...is living a lie!!!
      No corruption in the church? Hmmm...is it that word that troubles you? It's a pretty 'harsh' word, I agree...but quite realistic though. If and when you begin to learn about the Illuminati and masonry, and the 'goal' of satan, you will 'start' to see the light on the extent of corruption by 'some' members of the hierarchy. Why do you suppose Pope Francis has risked his life to clean house since he was elected? Why do you suppose Pope Benedict stepped down? It's no big deal. In fact it's commonsense really. Why would satan waste his time with 'other' religions when he knows that taking out the original church founded by Christ would accomplish more than any of his other efforts? I never really understood that until Fr Corapi preached about it in fact. He would often say: "strike the shepherd, scatter the sheep". He was right on. All ordained deacons, priests, bishops, cardinals, and even the popes are his main target. Those who deny that reality...are already in his grip and satan need not bother with them!
      Apparently, you do not know a lot about Fr Corapi's 'run-ins' with bishops and pastors who adamantly refused to allow him to preach at their churchs and or dioceses. Fr Corapi was 'amazed' at the depth of the resistance that he came up against within his own church! HE was very scandalized by the brotherhood of priests and bishops...long before he fell from grace. Once again, I would suggest that you remove the rose colored glasses and take a hard 'look' at the Church to which you are wailing to serve...BEFORE you are ordained a priest. Or else...you will become 'just' another follower of fear as many priests are...rather than a 'leader' as Fr Corapi was.
      Unfortunately, Mother Angelica probably cannot express her views about Fr Corapi at this time due to her illness...but I'm willing to bet that she would sing his praises as much today as she ever did! Why? Because she suffered sorely under the 'same' corruption that Fr Corapi did! Plain and simple!
      You have seen all kinds of crazy things and don't recognize the corruption? Talk to me after you publish your book...'after' you experience the backlash of satan IF your book threatens his hold. Then we'll have some interesting discussions for sure!!!

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    5. Well, I would attend it just to see how he is doing and to give him support as a Catholic and fellow human. We must be happy if a sinner returns right? I hope and pray for the day that I learn that Corapi is in fact returning and doing something in the Church whether publicly or privately. I would even invite him to my radio podcast to talk freely. As for listening to his content, I personally would ask my pastor, priest or spiritual director about that first. The other day, I was listening to a video someone uploaded to You Tube where Corapi mentions a 'liberal' priest who told him he did not believe in the devil. Corapi then says he heard that priest scream and he and others ran to see what happened and found the priest in his underwear under the tabernacle. Now... I am not so sure I would take that story seriously. First, I would have to learn the identity of said priest, contact him and learn his side. Next, I would study each fact and make a conclusion. That is just the scientist in me. As for the orthodox quality of Corapi's content, well, I have not heard/watched them all, but I trust if there is an imprimatur and Nihil obstat, that I would say the content is okay. Does his content have these? All I have is the cassette tape I mentioned in a previous comment. My main exposure to him was on EWTN. As for "The Mist" analogy, some are more blind than others. The way I see it, one can be blind due to ignorance or willfully blind. I think the latter is a big problem. Illuminati and masonry? Are you being serious now?? I do not believe in that nonsense, no offense. Benedict XVI resigned because he had planned to. In a 2010 book, "Light of the World," he was asked about the Pope and the possibility for retirement, Pope Benedict had this to say: "If a pope clearly realizes that he is no longer physically, psychologically and spiritually capable of handling the duties of his office, then he has a right, and under some circumstances, also an obligation to resign,"

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    6. God even commanded that religious leaders should retire, see: Numbers 8:23-26.
      His successor, our current Pontiff is simply doing his job. I am sure as a Cardinal he was aware of the shady figures at the Vatican, not to mention that Benedict XVI left some instructions behind. I know Corapi had some run-ins with clergy, so have I. This is part of the package, so to speak. There are reasons for this, so we cannot jump to conclusions. 1). Only a pastor knows his sheep. To invite an outsider who may give a message that may offend his flock or alter their understand is not something a pastor would welcome. 2). Human factors such as envy or jealousy. A pastor/bishop may want or likes the attention and having Corapi or someone else come in may threaten them. 3). Corapi may have been charging too much to speak. So, tensions between clerics does not surprise me. I have seen it first hand. In fact, I have seen priests get into a fist fight! In one parish I worked in, the pastor was a bishop. Some 'leaders' in the parish started hating me because this bishop was friendly with me and treated me like his own son. It happens all the time. This is why most likely I will request to do campus ministry, teaching or hospital work where I will not have to deal with the 'human' aspect of the Church which is what Corapi faced. Satan is already attacking me. Before I even announced my book about atheism, several Catholics came out of nowhere attacking me. I will put up posts on this soon so everyone can see the messages I received. I cannot let that get to me. If God wills it, it will happen. I can tell you that with 100% confidence. A nun told me I should start a blog. All this 'sacerdotus' stuff was never a plan for me. I simply made a Twitter account, met her on there and a few others and decided to take her advice. The blog started with 12 views and look at it now. Now I am everywhere online and even have a Facebook group where I teach people Catholic and Non-Catholic how to defend God against atheists. I personally do not think Mother Angelica would be happy with Corapi now. She faced so much scandal with some of her own order priests. However, it would have been interesting to learn her thoughts on him now if she could speak.

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    7. My only intention was the share the facts and infer that based on them, Corapi is not returning. Remember, this post was in response to Matt Abbott's post and other blog posts I ran into claiming a 'reliable source' said Corapi is working his way back. I hardly wrote on Corapi. The last time I wrote was in response to an article by Albert Cutie who wrote in the Huffington post mentioning Corapi. This is what I wrote: "John Corapi and the facts of his story are still not complete so it is hard to make a conclusion regarding him. Supposed texts were found and what not, but we have not seen them. His order claims he was living the high life with women, but no real proof was shown, just a statement of this. In any case, it is suspicious that he left the priesthood and remained in the complex he build which is worth millions and generates millions. It is also strange that after the statement by the SOTL order, he seemed to have quieted down his defensive stance. Only God knows what is really going on with him." (http://www.sacerdotus.com/2011/12/wolves-in-shepherds-clothing.html). As you can see, I almost sound like those Corapi 'cult' members. :-) I showed my skepticism about the claims from the SOLT order. That has since changed when I learned more. After that post, I did not write about him until Abbott's post came out early September of this year.
      In regards to guilt, again, I am going by the facts and what I found. Based on the whole drama, he is guilty. However, if he confessed and is not doing what his order found he was doing, then at the moment he would not be guilty of continuing those acts. The 'guilt' or 'judgment' you refer to is only for what happened in 2011, not about his whole life. I cannot call Corapi's work 'truth' because I have not watched/heard/read them all. However, if his work has an imprimatur and nihil obstat, then I can make a better judgment. I will say that I cannot call 'truth' his claims about conspiracies etc. That is his personal opinion. He could have said the world was flat for all I care and I would not call that 'truth.' So we have to be careful with calling anything 'truth.' As for EWTN, I like the network much better than Salt & Light. However, I do not rely on it for my instruction. For this, I use the catechism and official Church documents. Next, I ask scholars and professors if I am stuck on something.

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    8. So...the 'scientist' in you blocks you from taking someone at their word? That's not necessarily a bad thing...but it depends on what extreme that it takes you, I would think. It sounds like you are suggesting that Fr Corapi 'made things up' as he went along. Couldn't that be said about you? Is that ok with you...or would you prefer that people had faith and trust in your honesty...to some extent?
      I think we have 'finally' gotten to the bottom line with your statement of the need for an imprimatur and Nihil obstat...which I don't think you have for any of your writings. Why should anyone take anything you have to say as truth? Should we all wait until you get an imprimatur and Nihil obstat?
      Hmmm...am I being serious now??? Another 'core' issue I see! Perhaps you should read the book: Masonry Unmasked, by John Salsa...who was a top member of the Masons...(and formerly Catholic)...until he saw the light and returned to the church. He risked his life to write the book, and lives in constant reprisal, but he was called to 'reveal' the secrets that for so many years were held tight and denied by the organization. That book should 'open your eyes' to the very real plan and infiltration into the church that has been in the works for many years. I know you're not big on conspiracies, and perhaps they make you very uncomfortable...but if you are going to be ordained...at least try to learn a 'little bit' about the tactics of the enemy now. It will 'really' help you in the long run! (No offense taken by the way) I'm perfectly comfortable around people who need to look away!
      May I suggest something? Reread that quote from Pope Benedict while at the SAME TIME taking a hard look at the tough action that Pope Francis has taken since his election! There is absolutely no explanation for the fact that he hasn't been assassinated...'yet'!!! He has taken on the mafia, the curia, capitalism, this country, etc, etc, etc! He even said that he expects to be 'taken out'...but asked the Lord "to make it quick, because I don't like pain"...in his usual joyful manner! He's NOT blind to the enemy. He's the first pope to speak outwardly about the devil consistently since his election!
      Yes...it's true...Pope Benedict was no longer physically, psychologically, and spiritually capable of handling the duties of his office...but not for the reasons that you might be assuming. The monster was huge. The Holy Spirit sent us Pope Francis!

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    9. I like that quote from Numbers 8:23-26. Thank you! I think that perhaps you are reading it a bit shallow though. When salt loses its taste, it no longer has value. If only more religious leaders took that quote from Numbers a lot more seriously! When one finds that they are no longer effective: STEP ASIDE in humility...and let the Holy Spirit take over! That's what Pope Benedict did in the sight of the 'vast' deterioration of the church that he loves so much! His 'immense sacrifice' supports Pope Francis' success!!!
      Hmmm...I'm sorry...but I do find your statement: "only a pastor knows his sheep" very disturbing! Sounds like its 'ok' for pastors to do their own thing. I don't agree. Pastors who 'control' their flock with their own ideas are not in unison with the 'whole'...in my opinion. You're right on with the 'human factors' statement. The question is: how often should pastors go to confession? The pope goes every week...any ideas?
      Speaking of which: that reminds me of the single most disturbing thing that I had heard Fr Corapi say at one of his talks...that he didn't have time to hear confessions. That...and the time that I greeted him when his 'huge' body guard stepped toward me, were the two most 'disturbing' things that I felt about him. I knew right then that he was headed for a fall. It was inevitable. He was 'off the track'! Even Pope Francis 'rejects' protection...and he's got a lot more enemies!
      I suppose it's ok to request an easy job like campus ministry, but I hope you would be 'open' to whatever the Holy Spirit has planned for you! It's kind of scary, I think...but 'anything is possible' with God's grace, no?
      I don't think Mother Angelica would have 'changed' her thoughts about Fr Corapi...due to his fall. She has always had 'immense' compassion toward the down trodden and the underdog. I'm would think that she is as grateful to him today for his teachings on the catechism that aired on EWTN for years as she was when he recorded them!

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    10. Your original statement about Fr Corapi is in fact the cause of a lot of discussion. You don't seem to get it about the fact that it does not matter if Fr Corapi is guilty or not. It's not up to you to ascertain. That's up to the church...and ultimately God. Your statements slant toward 'disgust' for him from the start. That's the issue...right there. As soon as you show disdain for him, naturally people who love him are going to come out swinging! He is not 'evil'!!! No one is evil!!! People commit evil acts...but they are not evil!!!
      I think that if you 'open up' to constructive criticism and seek out people who will give you truly 'honest feedback' about your approach, you might begin to see why you're under 'attack' as you say. It's not 'what' you say...but 'how' you say it!!!

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    11. I understand the fact that you didn't use the word exonerating in your post, but the word reflects on how you think, no? We are not judges! Only God can judge. The church can take a stand based on its earthly position, but the church has NEVER placed judgment an anyone. It can't!!! It does not even teach with any certainty that Judas is condemned! Do you realize this?
      Be CAREFUL about assuming the reason for my comments!!! I can easily let go of this and go away! Just say the word, and I'll go. In fact, you didn't even have to publish me comment(s). I'm not entirely sure why you do. Are you searching for truth or do you think you're already there? I don't know about you...but my search for truth won't end until I breath my last breath. Only then...will I be able to 'see' the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth...Who is Jesus in His fullness!
      I keep mentioning Fr Corapi's works...because you don't. Simple really. It's about balance. We must acknowledge the good...and the bad...if we are to be completely honest and straightforward. I understand how you and many others are disgusted with the allegations about Fr Corapi and his response or lack there of...but we must not be disgusted with HIM...as well as his actions. That borders on being judgmental.
      The word rational does not scare me. It sends up a red flag though, as a potential 'extreme'. Extremes are dangerous. We often go to them without even realizing it. The Catholic Church can be said to be "black and white", but living the spirit of its teachings whole-fully should be colorful!
      We have something 'in common': in so far as recognizing the very extreme danger that Michael Voris poses for the church. He's another one that needs to be understood. I did a little 'investigating' into his background too after I realized that his talks are very abrasive and negative and yes: judgmental. I attempted to email him and got a response from his 'front man' Simon Rafe. You might want to check him out. He was a former atheist as well. He was rude and 'adamant' about me telling HIM what was on my mind, BEFORE he would speak to Michel Voris. It reminded me of Fr Corapi's bodyguards. That's why I did some research about Simon Rafe, Pretty interesting stuff. He was accused of some serious actions and publically apologized as a result...and Michael placed him on 'desk duty' as I call it; see for yourself:
      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Voris
      I don't think that Michael Voris is even aware that he is being 'blocked' from people trying to help him see the error of his ways by his right hand man. I have emails from Simon Rafe to substantiate that claim. Michel Voris probably means well...but I think he needs to properly grieve the loss of his mother (which catapulted his ministry) in order to come back from his very 'extremist' views toward the church, but that's just my take on him. Do your own 'investigative work' on his background. Id be curious to hear what your take would be!

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    12. I like your statement "I didn't wake up one morning and..."(etc) No? Are you sure? It appears that you woke up to me...for sure! It's not a bad thing. That immense passion and energy in search of truth is what wakes all of us up, isn't it??? I think that you have made a great contribution to the Fr Corapi group...but it could be far greater...if you take a different approach. People are 'starving' for the truth. That's why Fr Corapi is so loved. Rather than destroying his good works...why not praise his good works, while having a lot of compassion and mercy toward his fall? He's not an evil monger. He's just a 'weak' human...who stepped into the ring...and got knocked out. At least he got in the ring...no?

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    13. Most definitely! Extraordinary claims need extraordinary evidence, as the saying goes. I do believe Corapi may have made some things up in order to ornate his sermons. Human beings often embellish their stories in order to garner more attention. Yes, the same can be said of me; however, I do not claim that a priest saw the devil and screamed, nor other stories that are 'hard to believe' at first glance. This is why in my posts I put 'sources' at the bottom so readers know where I got the info from. As for me needing an imprimatur and nihil obstat, I actually do not according to a canon lawyer. These are only given to content related solely on Church doctrine or prayer. This blog contains essays on a variety of topics. The Church cannot give an imprimatur on posts I write on physics or psychology. Moreover, I have stated before on Twitter and elsewhere that bishops should give imprimatur and nihil obstat to Catholic blogs as well. However, they do not... trust me, I have tried to get them for my sites by the archdiocese said it is not necessary. Some bloggers attacked me for it saying I was kissing up to the bishops, whatever that means. Hopefully one day they will start doing this. I think this is a good idea and would stop Catholic bloggers from imposing their views on the Church. We have many blogs out there who claim Pope Francis is a heretic or attack Church leaders by calling them 'wicked' or 'liberals.' As for my book, it is not a 'Catholic' book per se. It is an academic critique of atheism so there is no need for me to get an imprimatur and nihil obstat on it. Nevertheless, I will send them a copy to see if they will still give it. I find it interesting that you get defensive and turn things against me whenever I question Corapi. That is not healthy. I do this work because a nun suggested that I try blogging. I do not receive a salary for this, nor do I have a compound, or go around charging people to give speeches. This work goes where God takes it. Many have stepped up to help me run it and I am grateful. They know that I am genuine and see the fruit of this work. I have no boats, vehicles or prostitutes on the side, thank God! I am most definitely not big on conspiracies. I am about evidence, proof! One can go nuts thinking about conspiracies which lead to paranoia. I trust Pope Benedict XVI retired because he wanted to and was humble enough to do it.

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    14. Not at all. We can definitely judge. However, we cannot judge what happens to a soul after death. In fact, we are called to admonish the sinner. In order to do this, judgment is necessary. Of course we cannot know the outcome of any soul, but based on their lifestyle we can assume. Based on what Jesus said in Matthew 26:24, I think it is safe to assume that he is in hell. I published your comments because they fit the criteria for posting. Your comments are posted so others can read them and see how I respond. What truth would I be searching for? There is nothing I am searching for. I found what I found regarding Corapi. If I find out more, I will update this post or start a new one. I do not mention Corapi's work because this post is not about it. This post is about questioning Abbott's column about Corapi possibly returning. I do not understand why you keep reading more into this than was intended. Not once did I state that I was disgusted with him. Michael Voris has been an issue for the Church. He is even banned in many dioceses and the World Youth Day. However, he has a big following which is interesting. Then again, people like that kind of stuff. They like drama, hell, fire and brimstone rhetoric and the like. Sorry you had a bad experience with his people. I have not engaged with any of them and for the most part ignore them. However, I am interested on learning more of your experience. If you can message me privately. I do not want you to become a target for legal action. Michael Voris has good intentions, but he has to work on his approach. Ironically, I get attacked sometimes for being too soft.

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  9. I think that as 'healthy' Catholics, we must be willing to own up to the 'serious' corruption by 'some'...and perhaps 'many'...in the Church hierarchy and STILL remain focused on Jesus. The Vatican wouldn't dare critique the movie Spotlight, nor would Cardinal O'Malley for that matter. Why??? Fear, unfortunately. Plain old fear! Yes. it's a factual movie. Yes, it's about truth. Yes, some priests and bishops did (do) some evil things. The bottom line is that the movie puts the magnifying glass on the Catholic Church 'only'. Countless other atrocities have taken place in s-o-o-o many other places that the movie doesn't cover. It's proportionately 'out of reality'...but people need to be there I guess...'out of reality'. Some representatives of the Catholic Church did some awful things...but who hasn't? Spotlight is a good movie, but can and will 'distract' us from our own personal sins...unless we keep everything in perspective rather than sensationalize. The movie is making a ton of money...and garnishing top awards. That's great for whomever gets the money...but not so great for those who fester in hatred toward 'all priests' and the Catholic Church because they went to a biased movie!

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    1. I did not see the movie yet, but Cardinal O'Malley I believed endorsed it. Other bishops had no problem with it. The Catholic Church is presented in this movie because it is based in Boston and the narrative is in regards to the events that took place as the Boston Globe investigated. Why would they include any other group in the movie? I do not think we should keep the truth from people even if it makes us look bad. Edmund Burke said it well, “Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it.”

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  10. Interesting. I didn't see the movie either. I did read a number of reviews though. 99% of them laced with hatred for the Catholic Church. The movie is doing what it was made to do...'distract' people from personal sin. I wonder if as many people would be attending the movie if ALL the proceeds were going to the Catholic Charities? Hmmm. I think not. Like I said before...hatred begets hatred. St John Paul's first impulse about the entire scandal summed up the whole thing when he said "beware of sensationalizing the issue". He wasn't denying its reality...but warning of the evil potential that was lurking. Cardinal O'Malley would 'have to' endorse it, wouldn't he? He is the chair of the Vatican's panel on the abuse problem. He 'needs' to endorse the movie 100% even if he sees it's biased if he is going to garnish his position as head of the abuse panel. Very similar to his attending Ted Kennedy's funeral. Why would he do that? Money? Power? Fear? I still don't understand it...although he was dealing with one of the most powerful families in America. Everyone knew Ted Kennedy's stance on abortion. The fact that he attended the funeral was itself scandalous for many!
    "Why would they include any other group in the movie?" For the sake of justice, that's why. The Catholic Church is not 'collectively' evil...but it sure seems that way by the huge 'cover ups' portrayed in the movie. In fact, many people believe that St John Paul ll not only knew about the abuses but was the main source of the cover up...which is entirely possible...no? So...given that fact...there's a saint in heaven who covered up the sexual abuse by priests while on earth. Interesting stuff. I wonder who is behind all these interesting facts? Yes...we DON'T want to repeat history. What history don't we want to repeat? The Catholic Church history specifically? Or ALL the history inside and outside of the Catholic Church...that the movie does not mention?

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    1. Well, I am sure those reviewers took advantage of the film to add their inference. It happens... I do not think the movie was made to distract anything. It is just a movie. People will get whatever they get out of it. As for Cardinal O'Malley, he is a Franciscan. Franciscans tend to be more focused on avoiding conflicts than creating them. I am not too familiar with the Kennedy situation, but again, the Cardinal was probably being merciful. Jesus ate and was around sinners. Perhaps the Cardinal's presence was to show that the Church is still with the family even though they chose to adopt views that put them against her. As for why would they include any other group? Remember, the scandals in Boston were about the Catholic Church, no other group. That being stated, it would not make sense to highlight any other group if this movie was about the news from 2002. If the movie were about child sex abuse, then I would assume they would include all groups, especially the Watchtower organization which has covered up a great deal of child abuse cases.

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  11. If you actually take the time to read the reviews (on Fandango), you will see quite readily that 99.9% of the reviews celebrate the exposure of the 'evil' Catholic Church. A very 'few' of them offer a 'balanced' review. I never said that the movie was 'made' for the purpose of distraction. That's absurd thinking! What I said that the movie IS a distraction for all too many people. People who 'need' to feel good about themselves, by pointing the finger elsewhere. Why do you suppose there are no lines for confession these days? Very few people sin anymore...except for priests and bishops of course!
    I realize that you need to remain 'reserved' on the Cardinal O'Malley/Kennedy issue, or else you might not get ordained! Unfortunately, that's the criteria of the church these days. Anyone who feels called to become a priest has to 'hold their opinions' if they are to get in. Afterward, they can speak out, like Fr Corapi did...because you cannot take away the 'indelible mark' of ordination from any priest, once ordained. They can bind them and imprison them, but they can never 'undo' an ordination! Catholicism 101!
    It's ok though. Everything happens for a reason. Even though the entire pro life movement felt let down by Cardinal O'Malley attendance at Kennedy's funeral, they seem to have been 'prepared' for yet another major let down...when Pope Francis demoted Cardinal Burke. It's all good, in the long run. Pope Francis is right on when he said "the Catholic Church is about much more that abortion and homosexuality". That was a great statement, and he's right on target! My point is that Catholics can be scandalized by practically anything...unless we have deep roots in our core beliefs.
    In so far as the movie: people need to see it for what it IS - a money machine. IF they view it that way, they can come away from it with a 'healthy' understanding of the power of good vs evil. Jesus was undoubtedly the greatest journalist in the history of mankind, but He didn't accomplish that feat by one sided truth...He did it with the whole truth and nothing but the truth...which led Him to be crucified...NOT to be a multi millionaire!!!

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    1. I personally do not trust reviews. Many times you read a review on a book or movie and you go out and read/watch it and your experience is much different. Yes, I definitely have to remain reserved. This does not mean I cannot give my opinion. However, my opinion cannot be such that it presents itself as more authoritative than the Church. Ordination cannot be undo, but a priest can be laicized. Cardinal O'Malley and Pope Francis are religious priests, so they think differently than diocesan priests. I like Cardinal Burke, but he was too fixated on gay marriage and abortion. He has to realize that the old ways are gone and do not work with today's generation. We have to find better ways to get the message across. I personally do not get scandalized, only annoyed. :-) In the end, this is Christ's Church, not mine, not Pope Francis', Burke, O'Malley etc. God will take care of her regardless of what we do.

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  12. Lastly, I'll be surprised if you post this, but I think that your statement about Robert jumping off a cliff if Fr Corapi told him to is harsh and inappropriate...toward him and everyone else who sincerely loves and appreciates Fr Corapi's work. I understand that as a psychologist that you have a genuine concern for cult like atrocities like the one that occurred in Guyana led by Jim Jones. To liken those who love Fr Corapi to that kind of end is absurd really. They (we) are just a group of Catholics who 'were' starving for the truth...and Fr Corapi restored our faith and our hope. We hurt because he's hurting. We wich him the best. We pray that he have peace, and receives his reward. Like you (and he) says...it's not rocket science!!!

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  13. Apatheist...interesting pen name. What does that mean? Apathy?
    If so, it surely doesn't reflect your comment! Fr Corapi never taught any truth? Have ever 'seen' his teachings on the CCD? He reads out of the book! Is that not truth? You left the church because of him? Honestly, I've never understood how any one man can cause someone to leave the church. Why would anyone give any 'person' that much power over their lives? The secret to never getting 'lost' is a statement that can be found in your pocket: just pull out a dollar bill and read "In God we trust"! Be sure to add: NO ONE ELSE!!! The only 'humans' that are totally trustworthy are those who were born sinless: The Blessed Mother and Jesus; and all the saints who have been deemed to have become completely 'purified' by the Catholic Church. If we place our complete trust in ANYONE else...we're placing ourselves in 'serious' danger of becoming lost! It's great that you are fining a bit of hope through Michael, but is 'he' now becoming your source? That would not be any more healthier than placing too much trust in Fr Corapi! You are setting yourself up for another fall from the church if you do that...no?
    Attacking Sac? Is that your view? How so? Sac has ad hominem rules to this post. Why would he post an attack? Wouldn't he be breaking his own rules? Why would he do that? I have better things to do than contribute to this discussion, believe me. Yes, I 'should be' ashamed of myself for attacking Sac...if that were true! Truth hurts. It 'appears' like an attack at times. That's the very nature of truth. If I've said something wrong or bad...PLEASE...tell me what I said! I'd be happy to review it and admit to wrongdoing if that be the case! Trolling? By what definition are you using that word? I don't understand!
    I appreciate your comment though. It's great to hear where you are coming from and I'm happy to hear that you are recovering from your Fr Corapi experience. It's kind of interesting for me. Fr Corapi 'drove' you away from the church, while at the same time his teachings rekindled the flame in me that was almost out due to the 'watered down' preaching by all too many priests in the church as a result of the misinterpretations of the Vatican ll documents! I think it's important to recognize that if a man had caused you to leave the church once...it can happen again unless you're extremely careful! God bless!

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  14. We can definitely judge? You're talking secularism right? Jesus said to "settle your matters quickly with your adversary on the way to the court...lest you face a human judge". You really seem to be 'caught' in some sort of confusion about that word: judge. To recognize sin; that is: right from wrong...is one kind of judgment. However, one must be clear to refer to the action (sin) and not the person...because only God knows the hearts of men and women. Culpability is a huge factor even in the confessional. It 'scares' me to hear you say that "based on their lifestyle we can assume". Wow...that is frightening! Sounds a bit like terrorism actually. A lot of people are being beheaded these days based on that kind of thinking! I disagree that it can ever be "safe to assume" that anyone is in hell. If that's what your learning in that seminary: get out of there now! Find a seminary that teaches true Catholic doctrine and not supposition! I'm sorry to hear that you are not searching. I hope that I never stop searching...until and IF I make it to my heavenly reward. I choose not to 'assume' that I've made it, lest I become presumptuous! My mistake. I stand corrected. You didn't say that you were disgusted with Fr Corapi...what you actually said was that you were disgusted with the way that he used his priesthood. That same statement can be made of countless priests, bishops, cardinals, and even popes though. Recently the bishop of Germany was taken to task for spending millions and millions of dollars on a 'posh' residence...which is just 'one' example...because he got caught. However, rest assured, there are s-o-o-o many like him! It ain't pretty for sure...but to be fair...I think you need to assess the 'whole' picture and not just Fr Corapi! I will message you privately about my experience with Michael Voris. Meanwhile, I think it is important for everyone who listens to his talks to 'discern' his motives. Why is he doing what he is doing? Has the church asked him to help 'clean it up'? Would the church do that? I think not. Pope Francis is doing a fine job. He doesn't need anyone to dissect the church and clean it up. He just needs our prayers and support!

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  15. Michael, you made a powerful statement yesterday: "This post is about questioning Abbott's column about Fr Corapi possibly returning". Really? Is that a completely truthful statement? Is it 'only' about the reality of Fr Corapi's returning? Or is it more along the lines of the bitter pill of being banned from a Facebook group? Being banned or 'unfriended' is truly a 'bitter' pill to swallow. It's a kind of rejection that hurts deeply, especially when we feel it wasn't justified. I know this all too well. I've been unfriended and even 'blocked' by my own family members...simply for speaking truths that they didn't want to hear. It's like Fr Corapi being told "we don't want you preaching at our church or in our diocese". What a bitter pill for him! He had the door slammed by his own brothers in the church. He saw the arrogance and the obstinacy of the very people who should have 'welcomed' his preaching. He became disillusioned. Perhaps he made the same mistake that so many people make: he placed is trust in 'humans'...rather than God. He 'expected' that 'at least' the church representatives would be open to the 'black and white' teachings of the church. Not so. He discovered that countless pastors and bishops were crafting their own truth...by watering down the truth and making it more 'colorful' and appetizing. If you're going to make a statement about your intentions and purpose, at lease recognize the emotions in your own writing. It would make you more credible, not less!

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  16. I think that it is very important to understand the purpose of an imprimatur Nihil obstat. Unless I'm mistaken, it is expressly for the purpose of guiding and protecting a Catholic from heresy or false teaching. It is granted 'only' when applicable and/or necessary to that end. While it is true that we need to exercise great care as to what we read and who the writer is, with the realization that our small intellect compared to satan's can easily be deceived...we must also bear in mind the question as whether what we are reading is a matter of faith and morals. Those are the 'only' areas that the church protects with great care. Anything else is conjecture, speculation, opinion, etc. I don't agree that Catholic bloggers should be 'stopped' from offering these views. It's a free country (for now) and we should be free to express our views. The READER, however, needs to be taught and fully understand the extreme danger that 'lurks' in non church approved writings...no? That's why the church is often called out mother...and protectress!
    Sounds like you're really proud of your poverty! No boats, etc. That's good, I guess...but then again can pride be called good?
    Do you feel attacked when I "turn things back against you"? Why? Shouldn't certain standards be applicable to all of us? I'm not defensive. Just a mirror maybe?
    One last thing: your statement regarding Cardinal Burke can be a bit 'dangerous' for readers I think. The old ways (his ways) are not gone...any more than every "letter of the law remains intact" because Jesus assured us of that fact. The old ways will never be gone...and will always have a place in today's generation. The only thing that Pope Francis did by demoting him is to shed the light on the greater picture. He hasn't said anything against Cardinal Burke, although Cardinal Burke has struggled to adjust.

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  17. Father Corapi was the Bill Clinton of televangelism. Charasmatic, riveting, and more...but, at his core, devious.

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    Replies
    1. Apparently you know his heart? I thought that God alone knows the heart?

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    2. We are all devious one way or another. This is the affect of Original Sin.

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    3. It's encouraging to hear you describe yourself as devious. I have always sensed it, but couldn't find the right word. Devious is perfect! I guess the next question to ponder is: how devious are you? Devious at the core? Perhaps you don't want to look at it that deep...but that's ok...you're entitled to your privacy in this world, and whatever need that you might have not to look at your soul that deep. Always remember that God alone knows the heart though...even more than we know our own hearts! It's still not very clear to me as to why you find it necessary to throw Fr Corapi...as well as any and all of the good that he has accomplished in his life under the bus. I guess you need that to attain your goal for some reason. Not sure just how devious your plans are,(to the core or not) but as I said...God knows the heart! Ultimately, it's between you and Him!

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    4. John, perhaps you never read the catechism and learned about original sin and its effects. We all have concupiscence and are drawn towards sin and evil. However, not everyone is equally devious. I am a saint compared to Corapi realistically speaking. For one, I am true to my celibacy and chastity. I have no bank accounts and rely on people to donate to help me keep this work alive. I can promise you that no employee of the Church, nor any man, woman or child will accuse me of anything etc. My life is clean and transparent.

      You are devious for turning a blind eye to the evils of others, especially a priest and pretending he is a saint we all must admire. That is disturbing and shows your delusion. God knows the heart but also tells us in His Word to test the spirits. May I share some Scripture with you. Reflect on it and learn how to test the spirits and not defend the bad ones.

      Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
      1 John 4:1


      I am closing this thread as Corapi is old news and I am about moving forward doing actual evangelization and bringing people to Christ; not create a fandom for myself.

      Delete

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