Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

         The Pastor’s Letter this week begins with an important statement from the diocese. Please read it carefully. STATEMENT OF THE DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH REGARDING THE CRIMINAL CASE OF FATHER GUINAN The Diocese of Palm Beach has been informed that the jury has found the Rev. Francis P. Guinan criminally guilty of charges of grand theft. While respecting the rights of the accused, and not wishing to interfere with the criminal process, the diocese is relieved that the jurors were not swayed by the inaccurate presentation of the defense. This defense portrayed a false notion that diocesan policy permits priests to spend up to $50,000 of parish funds for personal use. This is blatantly false! The policy referred to is one that gives pastors the ability to spend up to this amount exclusively for church purposes, such as parish building renovations and the like. Above this amount, diocesan permission is required.

When diocesan officials received credible evidence against Fr. Guinan regarding financial impropriety at St. Vincent Parish, which pointed to using parish monies not in keeping with his priestly ministry, Bishop Barbarito immediately withdrew his ability to administer financially the parish of St. Vincent Ferrer, and approved a diocesan investigation, including an independent audit. The Delray police, who had simultaneously received an anonymous complaint about Fr. Guinan, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement launched a separate lengthy investigation with which the Diocese of Palm Beach fully cooperated at all times. In the course of the investigation, evidence was also uncovered against Father John Skehan, Fr. Guinan’s retired predecessor at St. Vincent Ferrer. Because of the evidence uncovered at St. Vincent Ferrer, Bishop Barbarito also authorized an investigation at St. Patrick Parish, where Fr. Guinan has previously served as pastor.

Bishop Barbarito wishes to assure all that, independent of this matter, a policy of regular thorough biennial reviews of every diocesan entity by independent audit firms, and a system of handling parish funds were established and promulgated in March, 2005. Parishes are required to follow these policies. The current policies and procedures are intended to assist parishes and finance committees in complying with diocesan norms. They are also intended to assist pastors in the financial administration of their parishes.

In light of Fr. Guinan’s conviction and Fr. Skehan’s recent guilty plea, Bishop Barbarito will continue to restrict Fr. Guinan and Fr. Skehan from public ministry. They will be expected to lead lives in reparation for their actions.

The trial and conviction of Fr. Guinan today may be a painful reminder of the feelings of betrayal and anger, especially for the parishioners of St. Vincent and St. Patrick Parishes. Bishop Barbarito wishes to commend the people of these parishes and the diocese for their patience and continued faith in the long period since this matter began. On behal of all priests, the Bishop apologizes for the scandalous behavior which has occurred. The Diocese of Palm Beach has successfully sought and intends to continue to seek restitution of stolen funds. We will continue to do our best to right a wrong that should never have occurred and is a grave aberration from the upright conduct of the majority of the good priests of our diocese. The Bishop asks for your continued prayers for all involved, including Fathers Guinan and Skehan. Relying on God, the ultimate judge and source of healing, let us move forward with the same faith that is the hallmark of our diocese. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +++++++++++++++++++++++
On a big positive note for our parish this week, we have our 43rd annual Parish Festival this weekend. It’s a BIG fundraiser that goes for the benefit of our school. Some special news comes in the way of our St. Vincent Ferrer School Girls’ Soccer team completing an undefeated season recently, winning the league championship in the process. Congratulations!

St. Vincent’s defeated Saint Mark’s team 3-2 in the big championship game on Feb. 18th.Our Vikings advanced to the title game with a 3-1 win over the Gulfstream School in the league semi-finals. We finished the season with an 8-0 record, and are very proud of our girls. This is just another good reason we hope you’ll continue to support our school and help maintain our high standards and top quality education. Thank you to the many Moms and Dads and Volunteers who help make our annual Parish Festival such a wonderful success. You help me to maintain a very vibrant and great parish. May God continue to bless you and your family as you strive to work for the peace and unity of us all!
     
 Msgr. Tom