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	Queens Church Prays for Help through Vicar Sex Storm By Andrew Garib and Bill Hutchinson Daily News November 06, 2008 http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/queens/2008/11/05/2008-11-05_queens_church_prays_for_help_through_vic.html Members of a Queens church rocked by the alleged sexual shenanigans of a Viagra-popping vicar prayed Wednesday night that they overcome the scandal. About 150 parishioners gathered for a "prayer service" at Our Lady of Snows Church in Floral Park to ask God to guide them "through this very difficult time." "We will not allow events that are beyond out control to bring down our parish," the Rev. Msgr. Raymond Chappetto told them. Last night's service was prompted by a stunning $25 million lawsuit filed by Judith Rodrigues-Lytwyn, 50, who claimed the church's former vicar, the Rev. Elvis Elano, seduced her into a sexual relationship. Rodrigues-Lytwyn charged Elano took advantage of her vulnerability after she went to him for confession and told him of her pending divorce from an abusive husband. In the Brooklyn Supreme Court suit filed last week, she included photos of her and Elano, 44, on a romantic beach stroll, and others of the cleric bare-chested and holding a rose in his mouth. "Our parish has been violated. ..." said Chappetto, referring to photos of Elano. Chappetto refused to criticize Elano, telling the congregation, "We are not here to condemn, to condone actions and, most of all, we are not here to judge." The pastor's message prompted applause from parishioners. "I think we're all together on this. It has brought the parish together," said Tony Sweeny, 76, a member of the church for 36 years. Elano was transferred to St. Joseph's Parish in upstate Kingston during the summer. He was suspended last week from his duties as a hospital chaplain. Contact: whutchinson@nydailynews.com
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