BishopAccountability.org
	LA Crosse Diocese Releases Statement on Death of Priest WKBT December 2, 2010 http://www.wkbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=13600283 [with video] LA CROSSE, Wis.- The La Crosse Diocese releases a statement about the passing of a former Onalaska priest who was facing criminal charges. 60 year old Father Patrick Umberger died Tuesday at an assisted living facility after a long battle with cancer. Umberger resigned from his priest duties at Saint Patrick's church in July after being arrested for having child pornography. In a statement released Wednesday, the La Crosse Diocese says: "The Diocese extends to the family and friends of Father Patrick Umberger our prayers and support in this sad and difficult time. While Father Umberger's recent years have been filled with physical pain and sadness, our faith teaches that he is now in a place of light, happiness and peace. It is unfortunate that Father Umberger was denied, by death, his day in Court. Despite the somewhat graphic reporting of Father Umberger's troubling statements about his private thoughts and private life, the Diocese has yet to be provided any evidence of criminal activity by Father Umberger. We hope that, now upon his death, people will be merciful in their judgments and remember his many good deeds, as we all hope they do for each of us. We pray also for the people of his parishes and those places where he served-for those he helped and those whom he unfortunately disappointed. As we approach this Christmas season, may we all find peace and happiness her on earth as it is in heaven."
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