Bishop Threatens to Punish Abuse Victim Advocate, Mike Webster, WCSH, December 29, 2008

Bishop Threatens to Punish Abuse Victim Advocate

By Mike Webster
WCSH

December 29, 2008

http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=98102&catid=2

PORTLAND (AP) -- The leader of Maine's Roman Catholics is threatening to punish an outspoken advocate for victims of priest sex abuse.

Paul Kendrick has been banned from the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland and warned in a letter that further attempts to contact Bishop Richard Malone could endanger his ability "to participate fully in the sacramental life of the church."

Kendrick, a co-founder of the Voice of the Faithful, has been a vocal critic of the church's handling of priest sex abuse allegations and its treatment of victims.

Church spokeswoman Sue Bernard says the church doesn't object to criticism. But she says Kendrick's actions constitute harassment and need to stop.