Cathnews USA
April 6, 2011
http://www.cathnewsusa.com/2011/04/wordnet-founder-admits-affair/
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Divine Word Father Michael Manning, founder of the Wordnet TV ministry, has admitted to a long standing affair with his cousin.
Father Manning confirmed by phone that he had the relationship with Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Nancy Kotowski, when questioned about copies of correspondence sent to this newspaper that appeared to point to the two breaking off the relationship more than two years ago, the San Bernardino Sun reports.
"We've been such good friends and there's a deep love we have for each other," Manning said. "The sexuality was secondary. It's very hard when you care for someone, but I love my priesthood more. I admit the fact of my sinfulness. I've done wrong. That's why I've stopped."
Kotowski briefly reflected on her relationship with Manning that spanned decades.
"Father Mike Manning is a very dear and close friend of mine," Kotowski said when reached at an anti-gang conference in Washington, D.C. "Our friendship has grown over 30 years, and we share a deep commitment of faithful and dedicated life of service in our respective work. I have nothing more to publicly say about this personal and private matter."
Manning, 70, started the nonprofit Wordnet, a Catholic television ministry, in 1978.
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