By Kathryn Garcia
KNXV-TV - ABC15
January 8, 2008
http://www.abc15.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=3fdac9bb-980d-4997-81f7-485cd8510e5d
Hundreds continue to flock to worship services put on by suspended priest Dale Fushek, even though the Diocese of Phoenix is urging Catholics not to attend.
"We try to focus on the positive and what we're here to do, which is to pray and worship," said Brad Kuluris, spokesman with the Praise and Worship Center.
It was standing room only at the Mesa Convention Center where Fushek, who is charged with misdemeanor sex charges against minors, led services.
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Although the Catholic Church has condoned Fushek's services, many of those attending were Catholic.
"We went to Mass last night, so I mean, what's wrong with coming and hearing the word of God," said Stella Quintanares, who attends St. Timothy's Catholic Church where Fushek used to preach. "As long as we go to Mass and get communion ... and we'll come again."
But Catholic Sharyn Figueroa, who also attends St. Timothy's, feels otherwise.
"I just wanted to come and witness it once, and I don't agree with it at all," Figueroa said. "Shame on him. Shame on him."
According to the Diocese, Fushek is still considered a priest on administrative leave while he's awaiting trial. Fushek has said that he left the priesthood.
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