Bishop Espaillat Target of Catholic White Gaze & Racism-Lite

The X post by Jonni Martinez (@iJonniM) criticizing Bishop Joseph Espaillat for using urban ghetto language or vernacular during a Confirmation Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral is a microcosm of a larger cultural and theological debate within the Catholic Church. This debate centers on the tension between preserving traditional liturgical practices and embracing the principles of inculturation as articulated by the Second Vatican Council. The criticism leveled against Bishop Espaillat reveals not only a discomfort with linguistic and cultural diversity but also a subtle form of racial bias that can be termed "racism lite." This analysis will delve deeply into the implications of such criticism, the historical context of inculturation within the Catholic Church, and the broader societal dynamics of cultural gatekeeping and the white gaze. It will argue that the Church's mission as a universal body necessitates the acceptance and integration of diverse cultural expressions, challenging the notion that only Eurocentric forms of Catholicism are legitimate.

 The Criticism and Its Context

Jonni Martinez's post, which quotes a video of Bishop Espaillat speaking in urban vernacular during a Confirmation Mass, expresses bewilderment and disapproval from Caucasians, asking, "What did I just listen to…" This reaction is not isolated but part of a thread where other users, such as Matthew Joseph (@matthew_sede), lament the "pollution" of traditional Catholic spaces by modern, non-traditional elements. The video in question shows Bishop Espaillat, dressed in full liturgical vestments, using phrases like "Come on clock it" and "Y'all better y'all better clock it," which are drawn from urban slang. The setting is St. Patrick's Cathedral, a symbol of traditional Catholicism in the United States, which amplifies the perceived dissonance between the sacred space and the language used.

Bishop Espaillat, as the youngest bishop in the United States and an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of New York, has been appointed precisely because of his ability to connect with inner-city youth. His background, growing up in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City, and his fluency in English, Spanish, and urban vernacular, make him uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the Church and marginalized communities (National Catholic Register, 2024). His approach is rooted in the principle of inculturation, which seeks to adapt the Gospel to different cultural contexts to make it more accessible and relevant. However, the criticism from some quarters suggests that this approach is seen as a departure from the decorum expected in sacred spaces, particularly when those spaces are associated with a predominantly white, European aesthetic.

 The White Gaze and Racism Lite

The reaction to Bishop Espaillat's use of urban vernacular can be understood through the lens of the white gaze, a concept that describes how white cultural norms are often imposed as the standard by which all other cultural expressions are judged. This gaze assumes that whiteness is the default or superior standard, and anything deviating from it is suspect or inferior. In this case, the use of urban vernacular is seen as a degradation of the sacred, rather than a legitimate form of communication that resonates with a specific community.

This attitude aligns with what some scholars have termed "racism lite," a subtle form of racism that does not overtly advocate for racial superiority but nonetheless marginalizes non-white cultures through implicit bias and cultural gatekeeping. The Wikipedia entry on "Catholic Church and race" highlights how, despite official stances against racism, elements within the Church have resisted change, and progress has been slow (Wikipedia, 2025). The entry notes that even when racial inclusion was rhetorically prioritized, many African-American leaders felt their plight was overlooked, suggesting a disconnect between policy and practice. This disconnect is evident in the criticism of Bishop Espaillat, where the focus is not on the content of his message but on the form of its delivery, which is deemed inappropriate because it does not conform to a white, European standard.

 Inculturation and the Universal Church

The Catholic Church's approach to inculturation, as articulated in the Second Vatican Council's documents, particularly "Ad Gentes" and "Gaudium et Spes," advocates for the integration of local cultures into the life of the Church. The International Theological Commission's document on "Faith and Inculturation" (Vatican.va) emphasizes that the Church must engage with diverse cultures to spread the Gospel effectively, recognizing that the Church is not a monolithic entity but a universal (Catholic) body that embraces all peoples.

Historically, the Church has adopted local languages, music, clothing, prayers, and symbols to make Christianity accessible. For example, the use of Latin in the Western Church was itself an act of inculturation, adapting the Greek and Aramaic of the early Christian communities to the Roman Empire's dominant language. Similarly, the incorporation of African rhythms into liturgical music in some regions or the use of indigenous art in Latin American churches are examples of how the Church has historically embraced cultural diversity. The Wikipedia entry on "Inculturation" notes that early practitioners of inculturation include St. Patrick in Ireland and Sts. Cyril and Methodius for the Slavic peoples of Eastern Europe, demonstrating a long tradition of adapting the faith to local contexts (Wikipedia, 2025).

Bishop Espaillat's use of urban vernacular can be seen as a continuation of this tradition. By speaking in a language that resonates with inner-city youth, he is not diluting the faith but making it accessible to a community that might otherwise feel alienated. The criticism from some white conservative Catholics, therefore, reveals a tension between a desire to preserve a perceived traditional (often Eurocentric) form of Catholicism and the Church's mission to be truly universal. This tension is not new; it has been a recurring theme throughout the Church's history, particularly in periods of significant cultural change, such as the post-Columbian encounters with the Americas, Asia, and Africa.

 The Danger of Cultural Gatekeeping

The tendency to look down on the culture, nuances, and vernacular of minorities in the inner city, as exemplified by the reactions to Bishop Espaillat, is a form of cultural gatekeeping. This gatekeeping assumes that only certain cultural expressions are legitimate within the Church, thereby excluding those who do not conform to these standards. Such an attitude contradicts the Church's teachings on the dignity of all cultures and the importance of inculturation.

The Wikipedia entry on the Catholic Church notes that the Church operates numerous institutions worldwide, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages, often tailored to local needs and cultures (Wikipedia, 2025). This global presence underscores the Church's commitment to being a universal body, not confined to a single cultural or racial identity. The criticism of Bishop Espaillat, therefore, not only misunderstands the Church's mission but also risks alienating communities that the Church seeks to serve. For example, the use of urban vernacular may be the only way some young people can connect with the Church, and dismissing it as inappropriate could push them further away from the faith.

 Historical Precedents and Theological Foundations

The principle of inculturation is not a modern invention but has deep roots in the Church's history. The early Christian communities adapted their practices to the cultures they encountered, whether it was the use of Greek in the Eastern Mediterranean or Latin in the West. The Council of Trent (1545–1563) marked a turning point in the systematic approach to inculturation, particularly with the Jesuits' missions in Asia and the Americas. The Wikipedia entry on "Inculturation" highlights how figures like Matteo Ricci adapted Catholic teachings to Chinese culture, permitting practices like ancestral veneration, which were seen as cultural rather than religious (Wikipedia, 2025).

The Second Vatican Council reaffirmed and expanded this approach, recognizing the need for the Church to engage with the modern world and its diverse cultures. "Ad Gentes" specifically calls for the Church to "enter into communion with the various civilizations, to their enrichment and the enrichment of the Church herself" (Vatican II, 1965). This communion requires not only tolerance but active engagement with and adaptation to local cultures. Bishop Espaillat's use of urban vernacular is a practical application of this principle, aiming to enrich the Church by making it relevant to a specific cultural context.

 The Role of Language in Evangelization

Language is a critical component of evangelization, as it is the primary medium through which the Gospel is communicated. The Church has a long history of translating the Bible and liturgical texts into local languages, from the Vulgate to the vernacular translations following Vatican II. The use of urban vernacular by Bishop Espaillat is an extension of this practice, recognizing that language is not just a tool for communication but a carrier of culture and identity.

The criticism of his language use, therefore, is not merely about propriety but about power dynamics within the Church. It reflects a discomfort with the idea that non-white, non-European cultural expressions can claim space within sacred settings. This discomfort is part of a broader societal trend where minority cultures are often expected to assimilate to dominant norms rather than being recognized as valid in their own right. The Wikipedia entry on "Catholic Church and race" notes that the Church has historically struggled with these dynamics, with progress often being slow and uneven (Wikipedia, 2025).

 The Universal Mission of the Church

The Catholic Church's mission is to be universal, embracing all cultures and peoples, not to impose a singular, Eurocentric standard. The term "Catholic" itself means universal, and the Church's global presence reflects this reality. The Wikipedia entry on the Catholic Church highlights its operations in over 200 countries, with a membership that spans diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds (Wikipedia, 2025). This diversity is not just a demographic fact but a theological imperative, as the Church seeks to be a sign of unity in a fragmented world.

The criticism of Bishop Espaillat, therefore, challenges the Church to live up to its universal mission. It requires a reckoning with the ways in which cultural gatekeeping and implicit bias can undermine this mission. The Church must continue to affirm the dignity of all cultures and the legitimacy of diverse cultural expressions within its sacred spaces. This affirmation is not about abandoning tradition but about enriching it through the contributions of all peoples.

 Conclusion

The criticism of Bishop Joseph Espaillat for using urban vernacular during a Confirmation Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral is indicative of a broader issue within some segments of the Catholic community, particularly among white conservative Catholics. This criticism reflects a "racism lite" that engages in cultural gatekeeping through a white gaze, devaluing non-white cultural expressions. However, the Catholic Church's teachings on inculturation, as articulated by Vatican II and practiced historically, support Bishop Espaillat's approach as a legitimate and necessary means of spreading the Gospel.

The Church's mission is to be universal, embracing all cultures and peoples, not to impose a singular, Eurocentric standard. The reactions to Bishop Espaillat's actions highlight the ongoing challenge of reconciling traditionalism with the Church's call to be a global, inclusive community. As the Church continues to navigate these tensions, it must remain committed to its mission of inculturation, ensuring that all voices, including those of inner-city youth, are heard and valued within the sacred space. The path forward requires not only theological reflection but also a willingness to confront and dismantle the subtle forms of racism that persist within the Church, ensuring that it truly lives up to its name as the universal (Catholic) Church.

 

What did I just listen to… https://t.co/plJvz89dSG

— Adrian 🇻🇦 (@deusimpera) August 8, 2025

References

1. International Theological Commission. (n.d.). Faith and Inculturation. Vatican.va. Retrieved from [www.vatican.va](http://www.vatican.va).

2. Wikipedia. (2025, July 24). Catholic Church and race. Retrieved from [en.wikipedia.org](http://en.wikipedia.org).

3. Wikipedia. (2025, August 4). Catholic Church. Retrieved from [en.wikipedia.org](http://en.wikipedia.org).

4. Wikipedia. (2025, May 4). Inculturation. Retrieved from [en.wikipedia.org](http://en.wikipedia.org).

5. National Catholic Register. (2024, January 28). Bishop Joseph Espaillat: How America’s Youngest Bishop Reaches Youth. Retrieved from [www.ncregister.com](http://www.ncregister.com).

6. Vatican II. (1965). Ad Gentes. Vatican.va. Retrieved from [www.vatican.va](http://www.vatican.va).

Bishop Garmendia Would Be 100 Today

The Life and Legacy of Bishop Francisco Garmendia

Bishop Francisco Garmendia, born on November 6, 1924, in Lazcano, Spain, was a remarkable figure in the Catholic Church, known for his dedication to pastoral care and his pioneering role as the first Hispanic bishop in the Archdiocese of New York. His life was marked by a deep commitment to serving the marginalized and fostering spiritual growth within the community.

Early Life and Ordination

Francisco Garmendia was born into a devout Catholic family in the Basque region of Spain. He felt a calling to the priesthood early in life and pursued his religious studies with fervor. On June 29, 1947, he was ordained a priest in Vitoria, Spain, by Archbishop Carmelo Ballester y Nieto for the Canons Regular of the Lateran. His early ministry took him to Argentina, where he served as a priest before being incardinated into the Archdiocese of New York in 1975.

Ministry in New York

In 1976, Garmendia was appointed pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in the Bronx, a role that would define much of his ministry. His work in the South Bronx, a community facing significant social and economic challenges, showcased his dedication to serving the poor and marginalized. His efforts to provide spiritual and material support to his parishioners earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Auxiliary Bishop of New York

Pope Paul VI appointed Francisco Garmendia as the titular bishop of Limisa and auxiliary bishop of New York on May 24, 1977. He was consecrated as a bishop on June 29, 1977, at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan by Cardinal Terence Cooke, with Coadjutor Archbishop John Maguire and Auxiliary Bishop Patrick Ahern as co-consecrators. This historic appointment made Garmendia the first Hispanic bishop in the Archdiocese of New York, a significant milestone for the Hispanic Catholic community. As auxiliary bishop, he reached out to all especially Hispanics, and founded the Catholic Charismatic Center at St. Thomas Aquinas' Convent which was later moved to St. Anthony of Padua parish on Prospect Aven.  Bishop Garmendia was a man of devotion spreading devotion to Our Lady and her Rosary. He gave out Rosaries and had two annual Rosary Rallies at Crotona Park.  Bishop Garmendia was responsible for the spread of devotion to the Divine Mercy. He spread this devotion around his vicariate and around the Archdiocese of New York when no one at the time even knew of it. 

Advocacy and Community Service

Bishop Garmendia was a vocal advocate for social justice and peace. In October 1981, he joined five other bishops in a statement denouncing the development of a neutron bomb by the U.S. Department of Defense. His commitment to peace and justice was evident throughout his ministry.

In 1990, following the tragic arson attack at the Happy Land social club in the Bronx that claimed 87 lives, Bishop Garmendia co-founded Hope Line (La Linea de la Esperanza), a non-profit organization serving the South Bronx community. Initially a bilingual telephone counseling and referral service, Hope Line expanded to include a diaper distribution program, a food pantry, a SNAP benefit enrollment office, virtual income tax preparation, financial literacy workshops, and referral services.  He also began the LAMP ministries which provides food and services to the poor. This initiative reflected Garmendia's unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of his community.

Legacy and Death

Bishop Garmendia continued to serve as an auxiliary bishop until his resignation was accepted by Pope John Paul II on October 30, 2001. He passed away on November 16, 2005, at the age of 81. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the initiatives he established.  His long-time Master of Ceremony Manuel De Dios Agosto was inspired by him to join the Franciscans.  

Bishop Francisco Garmendia's life was a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and dedication to service. His pioneering role as the first Hispanic bishop in New York and his tireless efforts to support the marginalized have left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the communities he served. As we remember his contributions, we are inspired to continue his mission of love, justice, and service to others.

He was featured on EWTN's Mother Angelica Live and was an active pro-life activist leading processions and protests at local abortion mills. Bishop Garmendia was a very holy and devoted man who was orthodox in his Catholic faith while being pastoral. He never betrayed his faith nor the Church and was always among his flock gathering their scent before Pope Francis even coined this expression.  We hope and pray one day to see Bishop Garmendia be canonized as St. Francisco Garmendia of the Bronx.   

 

Source:

Bishop Francisco Garmendia

Bishop Francisco Garmendia Ayestarán [Catholic-Hierarchy]

(2) Facebook

Bishop Francisco Garmendia (@bishopfranciscogarmendia) • Instagram photos and videos

(2) Bishop Francisco Garmendia Ayesteran (@BishopGarmendia) / X

Racism in The Catholic Church

Racism in the Catholic Church is a serious and persistent problem that violates the dignity and unity of the human family. The Church has condemned racism as a sin and has supported the struggles for racial justice and equality, but it has also been complicit in perpetuating racism through its history and actions. Some examples of this are: 

- the enslavement and killing of indigenous people by Christopher Columbus with the backing of the church; 

- the issuance of papal bulls that authorized the conquest and exploitation of non-Christian lands and peoples ; 

- the opposition and threats that white Catholics in Chicago and other cities made to the archdiocese for its support of desegregation  ; 

- the lack of representation and inclusion of Black, brown, and other marginalized Catholics in the leadership and decision-making of the church ; 

- the silence and indifference that many white Catholics have shown to the ongoing issues of police brutality, mass incarceration, and economic inequality that disproportionately affect people of color ; 

- the denial and dismissal of the experiences and perspectives of Black Catholics and other Catholics of color by some white Catholics who claim to be colorblind or not racist ; 

- the failure to address the root causes of racism and injustice in society and within the church, such as white supremacy, colonialism, and privilege.      

The Church has a moral responsibility to confront its own racism and to promote a culture of encounter and solidarity among all people, following the example and teachings of Jesus Christ, who came to bring good news to the poor and oppressed.

The Catholic Church teaches that racism is a sin that violates the dignity and unity of the human family, created in the image and likeness of God and redeemed by Christ. The Church condemns all forms of racism, including racist ideas, acts of racial discrimination, and systemic racism. The Church also calls for personal and social conversion to overcome the evil of racism and to promote justice and solidarity among all people.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "Every form of social or cultural discrimination in fundamental personal rights on the grounds of sex, race, color, social conditions, language, or religion must be curbed and eradicated as incompatible with God's design." [1]

Pope Francis has denounced racism as a "virus that mutates and instead of disappearing, goes into hiding, and lurks in waiting." [2] He has also expressed solidarity with those who protest peacefully against racism and injustice. [3]

The U.S. bishops have issued several pastoral letters on racism, such as Brothers and Sisters to Us (1979), What We Have Seen and Heard (1984), and Open Wide Our Hearts (2018). These documents acknowledge the history and reality of racism in the United States, especially against African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, and other ethnic minorities. They also offer pastoral guidance on how to combat racism through education, dialogue, advocacy, and action. [4]

The Church also recognizes the role of systemic racism in perpetuating racial inequalities and injustices. Systemic racism refers to the policies and practices of institutions that have the effect of favoring one racial group over another, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Examples of systemic racism include segregation laws, voter suppression, mass incarceration, educational disparities, health care gaps, and economic exploitation. [5]

The Church urges Catholics to examine their own attitudes and actions that may contribute to racism, as well as to challenge the structures and systems that foster it. The Church also invites Catholics to listen to the voices and experiences of those who suffer from racism, to learn from their wisdom and witness, and to work with them for racial healing and harmony. [6]

References:

[1] Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1935.

[2] Pope Francis, General Audience, June 3, 2020.

[3] Pope Francis, Angelus, June 7, 2020.

[4] See https://www.usccb.org/committees/ad-hoc-committee-against-racism/pastoral-letters-and-statements

[5] See https://thejesuitpost.org/2020/07/catholic-101-should-a-catholic-be-an-antiracist/

[6] See https://www.usccb.org/resources/practical-steps-eradicating-racism

Bishop Francisco Garmendia, My Pastor, Mentor and Best Friend

Bishop Francisco Garmendia: A Man of Faith and Service

Bishop Francisco Garmendia was a remarkable man who dedicated his life to serving God and his people. He was born on November 6, 1924, in Lazcano, Spain, a small town in the Basque Country. He felt a call to the priesthood at an early age and joined the Canons Regular of the Congregation of the Most Holy Saviour of the Lateran, a religious order founded by St. Augustine. He was ordained a priest on June 29, 1947, and served as a missionary in Argentina for many years.  

In 1975, he moved to New York and became a priest of the Archdiocese of New York. He was appointed as the pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas Church in The Bronx, where he ministered to a large and diverse Hispanic community. He was also the Vicar for Spanish Pastoral Development, overseeing the pastoral care of more than one million Spanish-speaking Catholics in the archdiocese.  

On May 24, 1977, Pope Paul VI named him as the Titular Bishop of Limisa and Auxiliary Bishop of New York. He was ordained a bishop by Cardinal Terence Cooke on June 29, 1977, becoming the first Hispanic bishop in New York. He continued to serve as an auxiliary bishop until his retirement on October 30, 2001. He died on November 16, 2005, at the age of 81.   

Bishop Garmendia was a man of deep faith and devotion. He had a special love for the Eucharist, Our Lady, and the Divine Mercy. He encouraged his flock to pray and adore Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, to honor Mary as their mother and queen, and to trust in God's mercy and forgiveness. He also had a strong pro-life conviction and defended the dignity of every human life from conception to natural death. 

Bishop Garmendia was also a man of social justice and compassion. He was aware of the needs and challenges of his people, especially the poor, the immigrants, the oppressed, and the marginalized. He advocated for their rights and dignity and supported various initiatives to help them. One of his most notable achievements was co-founding The Hope Line or La Linea de la Esperanza in 1990, a non-profit organization that provides counseling, referral, food pantry, diaper distribution, SNAP benefit enrollment, virtual taxes, financial literacy workshops, and other services to the South Bronx community. The Hope Line was born out of Bishop Garmendia's response to the Happyland Fire in March 1990, which killed 87 people in an illegal social club in The Bronx. Bishop Garmendia and Mr. James P. McLaughlin, President of United Parcel Service, led an effort to establish a bilingual telephone hotline to assist the survivors and their families. The hotline soon expanded into a comprehensive community assistance program that still operates today. 

Bishop Garmendia was a holy priest and bishop who left a lasting legacy of faith and service in New York and beyond. He was a true man of God who loved God and his people with all his heart. He is now being considered for beatification and sainthood by the Catholic Church. I will remember his sense of humor, smile, humility and dignified presence. He was my pastor, my mentor, and my best friend. He is missed dearly but is with the Lord and Our Lady whom he loved so much.  May he pray for us and inspire us to follow his example of holiness and generosity.

Sources:

: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Garmendia

: https://www.bishopfranciscogarmendia.com/p/blog-page_16.html

: https://www.bishopfranciscogarmendia.com/

: http://bishopgarmendia.org/about/

Fr. George Rutler Groped Woman & Looked at Porn on Computer, Says Accuser

A Bronx woman is accusing renowned priest and EWTN favorite, Fr. George Rutler of forcible touching. Rutler was assigned to St. Michael the Archangel Church in Manhattan this June 2020.  The alleged victim, Ashley Gonzalez who worked as security at the parish is calling on the NYPD to arrest the priest.  

Gonzalez recorded Fr. Rutler looking at porn on his computer in front of her.  She claims "He looked at me with a smile, looked away, and he put his hand inside his pants, and he was playing with himself...He aggressively threw himself on me and grabbed me sexually, aggressively, and I was fighting him off of me..." 

EWTN has stopped airing his programs while the Archdiocese of New York is investigating.  Fr. Rutler denies the allegations and voluntarily stepped down from his duties and is not serving as a priest.  

Here is the alleged victim's text to her mom telling of the attack:

Here are screen captures of the video and a screen recording of the newscast the alleged victim provided allegedly showing Fr. Rutler looking a pornography on a church computer.  

Here below is a letter being circulated around which is allegedly penned by Fr. Rutler explaining the situation and confirming the investigation. Note he confirms the accusation of touching and denies doing it but does not mention nor deny the video with him allegedly looking at pornography on a parish computer: 

I will update this post as I learn more.  

UPDATE December 1, 2020

After a long silence from Catholic news media, both CNA and the NCRegister are reporting the allegations. They claim that the pornography Fr. Rutler was allegedly views was homosexual in nature. The alleged victim was in his office. The incident occurred around 1 in the morning.  She claims that she walked to the door to leave and Fr. Rutler slammed it breaking one of her nails.  He then grabbed her breast.  The alleged victim hired a private detective who helped her file the police report. The Archdiocese of New York said the district attorney is investigating. The latter declined to comment. 

UPDATE December 2, 2020

More secular media outlets are starting to report on this story.  The Daily Beast informs that the video taken by Gonzalez is 18 seconds and shows a bald man sitting under religious icons. Those religious icons are of Cardinal O'Connor and possibly his success, Cardinal Egan. Moreover, the Daily Beast continues in its story that the bald man is watching gay porn with hands in his pants.  Manuel Gomez of Black Ops Private Investigators claims that Rutler invited the young security guard into his office between her rounds.  He allowed her to sit and rest for a bit.  Gomez claims that while Rutler was looking on the computer for presidential election results, Gonzalez looks at her texts and began texting her mother. When she glanced up, she noticed Rutler looking at pornography with "young men."  The video entailed one man performing oral sex on the other. This is when she began to record him with her cell phone.  Manuel Gomez claims that this was a "warm-up" for the assault both he and Gonzalez claim happened. The company, MG Security which Gonzalez works for offered to reassign her, however, she has refused to be reassigned.  It is interesting to note that the one assisting Gonzalez with this situation -Manuel Gomez- has been a subject of suspicion in other cases.  He has been accused of tampering with witnesses in a murder case. He was also arrested for choking a superintendent at a building in Queens. He was charged with criminals trespass, harassment, and strangulation. Nevertheless, his personal cases are not directly related to this accusation against Fr. Rutler.    

According to the Daily Mail, the same accounts are given, but they quote an email Rutler sent to NCR stating:

 

‘I am not permitted by Counsel to comment except that I enjoy the confidence of my superiors and am totally innocent.

‘Until this matter is adjudicated it is prudent to avoid comment and potential libel.’

So according to the email. Rutler seems confident that his superiors believe him and that he will be exonerated. The DA and Archdiocese have not given any more statements. 

Church Militant who often allows columns by Fr. Rutler and is quick to report clergy misconduct, has not published a story as of yet. Here are screenshots of their latest reports, including a column by Fr. Rutler on November 29, 2020:

We at Sacerdotus even tweeted to Church Militant to make them aware of the news, but no response:

Did you see this? Sad https://t.co/HtolOqQvmJ

— ☧✝️Sacerdotus™⚛✡🇻🇦🌲🎄🎅 (@Sacerdotus) November 27, 2020

Source:

https://brooklyn.news12.com/prestigious-nyc-priest-accused-by-bronx-woman-of-forcible-touching

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 1, 2020:

https://www.ncregister.com/news/father-george-rutler-accused-of-sexual-assault-denies-allegation?amp&__twitter_impression=true

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/father-george-rutler-accused-of-sexual-assault-denies-allegation-56964

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 2, 2020:

George Rutler, Prominent ETWN Catholic TV Priest, Accused of Sexually Assaulting NYC Female Security Guard (thedailybeast.com)

Security guard, 22, says she was sexually assaulted by prominent NYC priest Father George Rutler, 75 | Daily Mail Online

NYC priest accused of sexually assaulting security guard (radio.com)

Bronx DA accuses high-profile private eye Manuel Gomez of tampering with witnesses in gang murder case - New York Daily News (nydailynews.com)

Private eye Manuel Gomez choked NYC building super: cops - New York Daily News (nydailynews.com)

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 4, 2020:

NYC church security guard accuses priest of sexual assault (nypost.com)

Rev. George William Rutler Investigated Over Sexual Assault Accusation - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

UPDATED JULY 27, 2025:

Some reports claim that the charges against Fr. Rutler were dropped; however, we have not been able to confirm this. There is no report from the Manhattan District Attorney or the Archdiocese of NY.  Reports on social media claim he is still the pastor of St. Michael's Church in New York, but the website shows a temporary administrator listed.  

Cardinal McCarrick Accused of Sexual Abuse

Retired archbishop emeritus Theodore McCarrick of the Archdiocese of Washing D.C. has been accused of sexual abuse. The abuse allegedly happened decades ago when McCarrick was a priest in the Archdiocese of New York. McCarrick was a prominent voice during the pontificate of Saint Pope John Paul II. 

The Archdiocese of New York issued a statement saying that the Vatican was investigating claims against McCarrick. McCarrick claims he is innocent, however, the Vatican found the accusations credible. In light of this, McCarrick has resigned from public ministry.  He wrote in a statement:

“While I have absolutely no recollection of this reported abuse, and believe in my innocence,” his statement said, “I am sorry for the pain the person who brought the charges has gone through, as well as for the scandal such charges cause our people.”

His accuser is a 62-year-old married businessman from New Jersey.  His lawyer, Patrick Noaker stated that his client wished to remain anonymous.  The abuse is said to have begun in 1971. The victim was a student at Cathedral Prep Seminary which is a school for young boys interested in becoming a priest.  After being invited to serve Christmas Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, the victim claims that he was measured for a cassock by then monsignor McCarrick.  While being measure, the victim claims that McCarrick unzipped his pants and molested him.  McCarrick then told the victim not to tell anyone about what happened.  After this assault, the victim claims that McCarrick flirted with him and assaulted him again in the bathroom.

Here are the statements issued:

Source:

https://archny.org/cardinalmccarrick

http://adw.org/2018/06/20/statement-cardinal-theodore-mccarrick-retired-archbishop-washington/

https://archny.org/tm-faq

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/20/us/theodore-mccarrick-sex-abuse.html

https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/20/politics/theodore-mccarrick-washington-abuse-allegation/index.html

http://time.com/5317954/theodore-mccarrick-removed-catholic-church-abuse/

St. Patrick

Saint Patrick, known as the "Apostle of Ireland," was born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century. At the age of 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken as a slave to Ireland. 

He spent six years there before escaping and returning to his family. After becoming a cleric, he returned to northern and western Ireland. In later life, he served as a bishop. By the seventh century, he had already come to be revered as the patron saint of Ireland.

Saint Patrick's efforts against the druids are well recorded; he converted many Irish to Christianity. The Declaration, which is attributed to Patrick, is the most important document regarding his life. In it, he writes of his life and mission. He explains that he was called to be a bishop in Ireland to help convert pagan inhabitants to Christianity.

The Miracles of St. Patrick

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is celebrated worldwide for his missionary work and the numerous miracles attributed to him. His life and deeds have been a source of inspiration and reverence for centuries.

One of the most famous miracles associated with St. Patrick is the legend of him driving all the snakes out of Ireland. It is said that he stood on a hill, used a wooden staff to herd them into the sea, and banished them from the island forever.

Another remarkable miracle attributed to St. Patrick is the story of him raising people from the dead. Accounts from various sources suggest that he brought as many as 33 people back to life, a testament to his extraordinary powers.

St. Patrick is also credited with using the three-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish pagans. The shamrock, which has become a symbol of Ireland and St. Patrick's Day, was used to represent how the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit could all exist as separate elements of the same entity.

His miracles are not just limited to these well-known tales; numerous other miraculous healings and acts are attributed to him. These stories have been passed down through generations and continue to play a significant role in Irish culture and heritage.

St. Patrick's legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and transformation. His miraculous deeds are believed by many to be true, while others view them as symbolic stories that carry deeper meanings about life and spirituality.

Regardless of one's beliefs, the miracles of St. Patrick remain an integral part of his story and continue to inspire people around the world.

Patrick's Day is celebrated on 17 March, commemorating Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and celebrates the heritage and culture of the Irish in general. Celebrations generally involve public parades and festivals, céilithe, and wearing green attire or shamrocks. The Archdiocese of New York has St. Patrick as its patron and its seat, St. Patrick's Cathedral is named after him.  There is also another older cathedral named after him on Mulberry Street.  

The introduction of Christianity had a profound impact on Irish culture, reshaping it in numerous ways. The new religion brought with it a different set of values and practices that gradually became intertwined with the existing Irish traditions.

One of the most significant changes was the shift from a polytheistic belief system to a monotheistic one. This transition was facilitated by St. Patrick and other missionaries who often incorporated elements of Irish spirituality into Christian practices, making it more acceptable to the local population.

Christianity also introduced a new social structure centered around monastic communities which became hubs of learning and culture. These monasteries played a crucial role in preserving not only religious texts but also secular knowledge during the Dark Ages. They were instrumental in the spread of literacy and education throughout Ireland.

The Christian calendar replaced many of the traditional Celtic festivals with Christian holidays, such as Easter and Christmas. However, some pre-Christian festivals were Christianized rather than replaced, like Samhain becoming All Saints' Day.

Furthermore, Christianity brought a new moral framework that emphasized virtues like charity, humility, and forgiveness. These principles were reflected in the laws and social norms that developed under Christian influence.

Overall, Christianity's arrival led to a blending of cultures that created a distinct Irish identity, combining elements of the old beliefs with the new faith. This cultural synthesis has left a lasting legacy on Irish history and society.

Unfortunately, the legacy of St. Patrick and his evangelization effort is being erased in Ireland and in the Americas. Parades once meant to honor him are more like celebrations of Irish culture than the saint and Christianity. Gay factions are allowed to march in it after decades of being banned. Ireland legalized abortion and so-called same-sex marriage and has been pushing the Catholic Church back in favor of progressivism and liberalism. 

The day has also been hijacked by individuals pushing alcoholism and other vices that are dangerous to one's health and the lives of others. Alcohol does nothing but harm the body, break up families and relationships, and cause accidents that kill hundreds of thousands a year. It also contributes to cancer and other deadly diseases. There is nothing beneficial about drinking beer or any alcoholic beverages. It is just a mindless vice perpetuated by mindless people who live for vices.  

Let us ask St. Patrick's assistance and prayers as we face a new Paganism that is more cunning and disastrous than the one he faced in Ireland.  

References:

1. "Confessio of Saint Patrick" - Translated by Ludwig Bieler

2. "The Life of Saint Patrick" - E.A. Thompson

3. "Saint Patrick: A Visual Celebration" - Brian de Breffny

- "St. Patrick." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online.

- "St. Patrick's Day." History.com. A&E Television Networks.

- "Who Was Saint Patrick?" Christian History | Learn the History of Christianity & the Church.

50 Shades of Pray - Priest, Hunk, Dolan.. Oh My!

A big scandal is brewing in New York City.  St. Frances de Chantal in the Bronx is in the news regarding a priest who is being accused of living a double life and who is stealing from the parish to support it. Father Peter Miqueli was installed as pastor in 2012 at the well known parish in the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx.

He along with Cardinal Dolan and a male prostitute are being sued by parishioners.  The lawsuit claims that Miqueli stole over 1 million dollars from the parish by channeling money from an account for a pipe organ, the thrift shop, collection plate and even stipends for altar servers.

The money allegedly went to fund a gay lifestyle with a male prostitute named Keith Crist. This money was used to purchase a home and pay the rent of the muscular prostitute. Parishioners in the lawsuit claim that the archdiocese of New York was informed of this priest's lifestyle and that the aforementioned did nothing. They claim that Miqueli is rude and arrogant; dismantled the parish council and slanders parishioners that he does not get along with. A doctor and trustee of the parish is said to have provided Miqueli with drugs and accepted a down payment for the home bought. Moreover, workers at the parish claim that they saw stacks of money inside the room of the priest. Apparently, Crist's ex girlfriend, Tatyana Gudin was the whistle blower.  She claims that Crist hurt his knee while he and Miqueli were having gay sex in a tub.

Both Crist and Miqueli are said to have engaged in S&M type activities including muscle worship.  Miqueli is alleged to have drunken the urine of Crist who was his 'master.'

Parishioners have set up a petition, website and Facebook calling on the removal of this priest.  You can see the links in the 'sources' below this post for more information.

I will continue to follow up on this case and will ask friends of mine in the archdiocese of New York to see what I learn.  From reading the website, petition and lawsuit papers, some things do not sound 'kosher,' so to speak. The website, petition and petition seem to be focused on the character of Miqueli. It paints him as a rude, nasty and vindictive person. The details in the lawsuit itself seem a bit strange.  For example, why would a doctor/trustee of the parish help Miqueli get a house and drugs?  Why was he not named in the lawsuit?  Also, stacks of money in a priest's room is not something out of the ordinary. I myself used to help priests count money. They used to organize them in stacks prior to putting them in a money bag to deposit. These priests invited trusted people so that witnesses can be present to show that no money was stolen and the donations were accounted for.  Lastly, many of the details seem to paint the parishioners as disgruntled.  It may be the case that they do not like this priest and are trying to tarnish his image.  We cannot know for sure thought until the facts are in and evidence is presented.  So far, I have seen no evidence. No deeds showing that the priest and his alleged hunky boyfriend own the home have been presented. I have seen no evidence that there was any money being laundered.  The archdiocese is apparently doing an audit now of the parish so we may have to wait to see if they find any discrepancies.  There are many questions I have that I have not found answers to so I will reserve judgment on this until I learn more.

Home bought by Miqueli where he and Keith lived

UPDATE  December 11, 2015

Here is a photo of the rent agreement signed by Miqueli.

UPDATE  Dec 13, 2015:

Priest resigns.  He claims he is innocent of the accusations but will resign so as not to distract from Christmas.  The archdiocese is still investigating the charges.  No word yet on what they have found. However, Joseph Zwilling, spokemans for the archdiocese of NY said that they have found no evidence to substantiate the claims.  They asked for evidence and have only gotten allegations.  He did acknowledge that the parish was mismanaged.  Some parishioners, in particular a trustee named Chirino, say the priest is being framed and that this is all the work of parishioners with an ax to grind.

http://archny.org/news/flocknote-on-st-frances-de-chantal-news-story

(Source:  http://bronx.news12.com/news/priest-accused-of-stealing-funds-resigns-1.11223309, http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/priest-fired-sex-embezzlement-rumors-true-article-1.2463726, http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/bronx/parishioners-react-priest-resignation-s-m-scandal-article-1.2464482)










Source:

http://scallywagandvagabond.com/2015/12/rev-peter-miqueli-bronx-priest-steal-1m-male-sex-master-boyfriend/

https://www.change.org/p/timothy-cardinal-dolan-remove-fr-peter-miqueli-as-pastor-of-st-frances-de-chantal

https://www.facebook.com/Remove-Fr-Peter-Miqueli-as-Pastor-of-St-Frances-de-Chantal-213413205520342/timeline/

http://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/archdiocese-of-ny-and-cdl.-dolan-sued-over-homosexual-priest-stealing-milli#.VmpRzDWWNyc.twitter

http://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/money-bags

http://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/whos-protecting-judas-priest

http://nypost.com/2015/12/10/priest-paid-his-male-sex-master-from-collection-plate-lawsuit/

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/bronx-priest-sued-allegedly-stealing-1m-churches-article-1.2462101

http://helpsfdchantal.weebly.com/

https://docs.google.com/document/d/12yp-3ZDvMecdw_bjz4_Oa4VhfI59Ww-V2noaZhT_SWI/edit?pli=1

Cardinal Egan Funeral

His Eminence Cardinal Edward Egan was laid to rest today at the crypt beneath the high altar at St. Patrick's cathedral where previous archbishops and the Venerables Fulton Sheen and Pierre Toussaint are buried.

Fifth avenue was shut down prior to the funeral which began with a procession of countless seminarians, deacons, priests, bishops, archbishops and cardinals.  Over 3,000 people packed the cathedral which is under renovation. Many clergy of other faiths were present to pay their respects to Cardinal Egan. 

Among the crowd were many of Egan's relatives.  His grand-nephew gave a modest eulogy recalling his great-uncle's love for New York City and its people. The sitting Cardinal, Archbishop Dolan gave an inspiriting homily linking Cardinal Egan with the love of God that he demonstrated to the people of the archdiocese. In attendance were politicians mayor Di Blasio, former mayors Dinkins, Guiliani and Bloomberg. Also present were governor Cuomo, and others who ran for office during the last election. 
The funeral was aired on all New York news networks and was streamed live.

May Cardinal Egan, rest in peace. 

See more on Cardinal Egan: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2015/03/cardinal-edward-m-egan-dead-at-82.html

Dirty Hands

This weekend, gay activist Joseph Amodeo has conducted a stunt in an attempt to bait the Church. He posted an event on Facebook calling on LGBT and their supports to come to St. Patrick's Cathedral with dirty hands in order to protest comments made by Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of new York.

You may be wondering what is this about dirty hands; well, it originates from Cardinal Dolan's blog post found here:  All are Welcome

In it, the Cardinal writes about how all are welcome to the Catholic Church.  However, this welcome does not mean that all should continue their lives of sin, but must be open to conversion and holiness.  The Church is not an "anything goes," as the Cardinal put it.  He writes, "We are part of a Church where, yes, all are welcome, but, no, not a Church of anything goes"

Cardinal Dolan made a connection between washing one's hands before coming to the dinner table and keeping ourselves clean before participating at the table of the Lord (The Mass).  Amodeo took offense to this believing it to be some sort of a Catholic spiritually elitist statement and organized a protest where protesters would enter the Cathedral with their hands dirty.

Security at the cathedral prevented the protesters from entering as well as the NYPD.  Amodeo is crying foul and is using this to insinuate the Church as "cold and unchristian."  He writes on the Huffington post, "Today, myself and others knocked at the door of St. Patrick's Cathedral, but the door was not opened, rather it was slammed in our faces. As I begin to write this article, I'm cognizant of the raw emotions that I feel deep inside my heart. It's a feeling that I'm unfamiliar with, because until today, I have never been denied a seat at Christ's table. In fact, today marks the first day that I have ever felt disowned, abandoned, and lost."

Amodeo is playing the victim as usual.  Does he think Catholics are stupid?  We understood the Cardinal's post on his blog.  We all know as Catholics that we have to be in the state of grace in order to receive more graces.  Receiving the Holy Eucharist while in Mortal Sin is a Sacrilege.  This is nothing new in Catholicism.  Cardinal Dolan is correct in stating that we "have to have our hands clean" before participating at the Lord's table.  This is not an attack on the LGBT community or anyone else.  This is a reality in Christianity.  Amodeo is obviously ignorant in theology and Catholic teaching.

Jesus washed the feet of the Disciples before the Last Supper showing that we all must be clean before receiving Him.

Yes, Jesus ate with sinners and what not.  I have heard this argument over and over.  However, this does not mean that Jesus endorsed their behavior.  The difference is that Jesus can come to sinners because He is the savior.  However, we when approaching Him must come with a sincere contrite heart open to conversion and holiness.  Approaching the Lord with "dirty hands" is disrespectful and a complete statement of rebellion against all that Christ has taught us in regards to "go and sin no more." (John 8:11)


Amodeo quotes Matthew 7:7-8 which speaks of knocking and the door will be open to you; however he forgets that Jesus has limits on who can enter the Temple of the Lord.  In Matthew 21: 12-13 we read how Jesus was upset at how money lenders were using the House of the Lord for the wrong reason: bartering/commerce.  He literally kicked them out of His house.  Was Christ being uncharitable by doing this?  No, of course not!  He was kicking out those who were using the House of the Lord for things unrelated to God.

Similarly, Amodeo and his LGBT supporters were not allowed to enter because they wanted to use the Lord's House for a ridiculous purpose.  Their intention was to mock Christ and His Church; to make Christ and His Church look like bigots in the eyes of the world.

This is not the first time Amodeo has tried this stunt.  April of 2012, Amodeo resigned from the Catholic Charities board in protest to Cardinal Dolan's suppose silence to a request to help LGBT youth.  Read more here: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2012/04/lgbt-vs-cardinal-dolan.html

Amodeo is obviously on the side of the LGBT, not Christ and his Catholic Church.  His cognitive dissonance is obvious and troubling.  He must be mature and pick ONE side.

Amodeo writes, "I have never been denied a seat at Christ's table."  Well that was because at that time you were not doing something stupid.  You were actually coming to Mass to experience a conversion, not convert Christ and His Church into a LGBT image.

I call on all Catholics to protest Amodeo's actions and remind him that he should only serve the Lord, not the LGBT agenda.  He should open the doors to conversion to the LGBT people and help them wash their hands instead of encouraging their lifestyle which is killing them physically and spiritually.  

Joseph's Twitter:  https://twitter.com/josephamodeo
Event Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/events/514781651916743/515772571817651



Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joseph-amodeo/cardinal-dolan-denies-cat_b_3219675.html#slide=2412229

Dolan and the Tax Collector

There is a big fuss surrounding Cardinal Dolan's invitation of President Obama to the Al Smith dinner.  This dinner is a fundraiser for Catholic charities.  The fuss comes from people who feel Cardinal Dolan is compromising his strong stance against Obama's anti-religious/life politics.

Who dines with the enemy?   Well Jesus did!  

Jesus at the Last Supper ate and drank with Judas Iscariot, the man who would betray Him for 30 pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:15)  Prior to this, Jesus even had time to eat with sinners, and tax collectors.  These were people who were often looked down upon as pariahs.  (Mark 2:13-17)

Cardinal Dolan who is an ordain priest is "another Christ."  As a Christian, He follows Christ.  That being said, how can the Cardinal be attacked for inviting a man who is obviously anti-religious to dinner if Jesus who the Cardinal represents in his priesthood and follows in his faith did the same 2000 years ago?

Many, especially from the Pro-life branch of the Church as well as non-Catholic entities are protesting.  A site with a petition was even designed: http://www.alsmithscandal.com/signthepetition/.  Priests for Life director, Father Frank Pavone even voiced his disappointment of the invitation.

I understand where my brothers and sisters in Christ and in the Pro-Life movement are coming from, but they must see that this is a grace in disguise.  We cannot hold these "grudges" against our enemies.   We sometimes don't understand God's will and providence, but in the end it all works out for the greater good.

A dinner is a dinner.  Yes, there will be "photo ops" and what not.  Nevertheless, it is still a dinner.  It is a time to set aside differences and allow God's grace to work through Cardinal Dolan and into President Obama.
This invitation may be scandalous to some but we must look past that.   This is a moment for grace and evangelization.  

In 2008, both John McCain and Barack Obama were invited by Cardinal Edward M. Egan to the Al Smith dinner.  Here is the photo:

Obama in 2008 had the same anti-life policies in his head that he does now.  SO What is the big deal?   Moreover, Pro-abortion and Pro-LGBT mayors Koch and Bloomberg participate at Midnight Mass and no one protests that.  What is a dinner compared to the Mass???   

Source:

http://radiantcross.org/Right-To-Life/2012/08/08/father-frank-pavone-guess-who-shouldnt-be-coming-to-dinner/

http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/yes-jesus-had-dinner-with-sinners-but-private-ones-not-photo-ops?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

http://www.catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=47222

http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/fr.-pavone-opposes-obama-appearance-at-ny-catholic-charities-dinner

http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/archdiocese-of-new-york-confirms-cardinal-dolan-invited-obama-to-speak-at-f/