BishopAccountability.org
	Gallup Diocese Clarifies Priest File Review Information By Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola Gallup Independent May 24, 2009 http://www.gallupindependent.com/2009/05May/052309gallupdiocese.html GALLUP — The Diocese of Gallup has reviewed about one-third of the personnel files of the men who are currently working as priests for the diocese. Diocese spokesman Lee Lamb clarified some information that was reported last week after the Gallup Diocese issued a news release about its review of more than 400 personnel files, including those of priests who are active, retired, formerly served, or deceased. Bishop James S. Wall has given authority to the Rev. James Walker, the vicar general, to carry out the file review. Walker, currently assigned in Bloomfield, will remain pastor of St. Mary’s and St. Rose of Lima and canonical pastor of Holy Trinity in Flora Vista and St. Joseph in Aztec, Lamb said, while completing the file review, which is contrary to what was reported. “As vicar general, which can be defined as the principal deputy of a bishop, he has been given authority to review priest personnel files, though he might be assisted by other priests such as a promoter of justice, if deemed necessary,” Lamb explained in an e-mail. “Fr. Walker’s travel plans between Gallup and Bloomfield are up to him and would be made to ensure that the file review is completed by late fall and meet the standards outlined in our press release. At some point in the process, Fr. Walker could be assisted with his parish duties by other priests of the diocese. (Not relieved of his duties, which has implications of being ‘removed.’)” Lamb was asked if diocese officials would make periodic announcements about information discovered in the files or if they would wait until the entire review process is completed. “As a compliant diocese with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, we will follow guidelines promulgated in the Charter,” Lamb said. “Though, information might come forward during this process where the diocese would need to disseminate it to the public or parish community. For example, we would not withhold information if the public were at risk.” Lamb was also asked about any possible personnel changes in the diocese’s chancery, but he merely confirmed the new bishop has not announced any personnel changes at this time.
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