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Leaders assess how Catholics are responding The Evangelist talked to two priests and a parish life director to gauge how Catholics are reacting to the ongoing news about Bishop Howard J. Hubbard: "People feel it's a sensitive issue. I have heard a lot of support for the priests; people are praying for the priests. They're in sympathy for all the wonderful priests that they know have served them so well, and they are praying for all priests. "We have a group here that prays every day, and one of the prayers they say is for all priests. It's not geared because of the scandal [but because of] a respect and regard for the ministry of priesthood and also for the need of vocations to the priesthood. "As far as the scandal, I have no recollection about people talking much about it. Nothing major, no petitions, just in passing. Maybe they just don't want to speak about it with a priest." Rev. James Gulley, pastor, St. Mary's parish, Amsterdam *** "Those who have made a comment were backing the Bishop. They all hoped it would come to a quick and happy end. Up here, it wasn't as much talked about as it was in the Capital District. "They believe that the Bishop is innocent and were upset by the accusations made against him. They felt that he was doing the right thing to restore his good name by coming out into the open, being aggressive and stating his position." Rev. James Mackey, St. Mary's parish, Glens Falls *** "People from our three parishes have shown a tremendous support for Bishop Hubbard during this time. We provided purple ribbons, and they expressed gratitude for that. They were glad to wear them in his support. "This past Sunday, we placed a prayer for Bishop Hubbard in the bulletin for those that wish to pray for him, and we have encouraged those that wish to send him a personal letter to do so. "In addition, this coming weekend at all our services, we will be providing an opportunity for parishioners to write a note to the Bishop. "There is a pensiveness among some of our parishioners, but I think that is normal. People seem concerned, not only for the Bishop, but also for everyone in the Albany Diocese. For the most part, I have seen great support for Bishop Hubbard." Sister Margaret Walker, DC, parish life director, Center City Partnership (St. Patrick's, Our Lady of Angels, St. Casimir's), Albany (This article was reported by Pat Pasternak and Karen Dietlein, staff writers.) (2/19/04) |