LONG ISLAND (NY)
The New York Times
By BRUCE LAMBERT
Published: September 17, 2005
A former official in the Catholic diocese on Long Island who was barred from priestly duties after being accused of molesting boys is prominently listed on the pastoral staff of a Great Neck, N.Y., parish.
A protest is planned for Sunday Masses at the church, St. Aloysius, by Voice of the Faithful, a group formed in response to the scandals. The group plans to distribute leaflets calling attention to the situation.
The focus of the group's protest is Msgr. Alan J. Placa, the former vice chancellor of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Bishop William F. Murphy barred him from priestly duties after accusations that he molested boys more than two decades ago. A Suffolk County grand jury described Monsignor Placa, though not by name, as an abuser. Further, the jury said Monsignor Placa, a lawyer, was a key strategist in the diocese who protected abusive priests and fended off victims' complaints.
Monsignor Placa, who did not return a phone call seeking comment, has denied the allegations.
The latest dispute arose because St. Aloysius, where Monsignor Placa lives, lists him on the cover of its weekly bulletin and on its Web site under "Our Pastoral Staff." His listing bears the title "Rev. Msgr." and "in residence." His name appears under the parish pastor's, Msgr. Brendan P. Riordan, and ahead of seven staff members, including the music director and the youth minister. The list gives phone numbers for staff members, including his.