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  Protesters Greet Parishioners on Ash Wednesday in Philadelphia

By Katharine Q. Seelye
New York Times
March 9, 2011

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PHILADELPHIA — Parishioners began filing into the massive Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul here just before noon for Ash Wednesday services, their heads bowed, as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia faces one of its biggest crises. On Tuesday, it announced it had suspended 21 priests in connection with allegations of sexual abuse and inappropriate behavior with minors.

Cardinal Justin Rigali, the archbishop of Philadelphia, who was officiating at the service, was expected to address the scandal, which has many in his 1.1-million-member church reeling.

A dozen protesters stood quietly by the front doors carrying placards. One read: “Name the 21,” calling on the church to release the names of the suspended priests.

Another sign said: “Rigali and Lynn: Wolves in sheep’s clothing.” The reference was to William Lynn, a senior church official and priest who has been indicted and suspended on charges that he tolerated and covered up sexual abuse by other priests.

 
 

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