MIAMI (FL)
Renew America
Matt C. Abbott
September 7, 2005
Just days after the dismissal of a civil lawsuit filed on behalf of the Rev. Andrew Dowgiert against the Archdiocese of Miami, Dowgiert's attorney, Sharon Bourassa, says the Vatican is "well aware" of the situation and might intervene.
The May 2005 lawsuit alleges that Dowgiert was wrongfully terminated for complaining to the archdiocese about sexual and financial improprieties allegedly committed by certain archdiocesan clergy.
Reports Bourassa (slightly edited):
"I have been in contact with Rome and a canon lawyer there. The Vatican is well aware of Fr. Andrew's situation. They are also aware that there is something very wrong with the Archdiocese of Miami and St. Petersburg. I cannot spell out the details, but the future for Fr. Andrew looks very promising. Much prayer, of course, is still needed.
"Our investigations and lawsuit and communications with the Vatican have caused a stir. There is more to come.
"The best thing for people to do now is to continue to complain about the issue of the oppressive gay clergy. This has the Vatican upset. If you know members of parishes run by sexually active gay clergy, you should tell [the parishioners to write the Vatican]. They can contact me for 'how-to' directions.