The Incredible Shrinking Newark Archbishop | Editorial

The Star-Ledger
February 20, 2015

http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2015/02/the_incredible_shrinking_newark_archbishop_editori.html

A look at the 3,000-square-foot addition to Archbishop John J. Myers' retirement home in Franklin Township, Hunterdon County, while it was under construction. The three-story addition includes an indoor pool, a hot tub, fireplaces and an elevator. (Star-Ledger)

Archbishop John Myers is clinging to his office despite the passionate opposition he inspired by his lavish spending of church funds on his retirement home.

This year, though, the diocese is apparently feeling some shame, and has removed his name from the annual fund-raising drive. It's no longer the Archbishop's Annual Appeal; it's been renamed Sharing God's Blessing Appeal.

From a strictly business standpoint, this makes great sense. Last year 22,000 parishioners signed a petition objecting to Myers money grab, and many of them protested by refusing to donate.

Who can blame them? Myers' thirst for luxury can only be described as bizarre. His retirement home had five bedrooms, a three-car garage, and elevator and a large swimming pool.

But it wasn't enough. Myers, at a time of rising poverty among his parishioners, built a $500,000 renovation that included a second pool, a hot tub, another elevator, three fireplaces, a large study with an attached library, and an enormous gallery with sweeping views of his property.

Apparently, His Grace, as he likes to be called, did not get the memo from Pope Francis about living simply and close to the people. Myers refused to even meet with the parishioners who presented the petition.

Myers, who has been awful on the sexual abuse scandal as well, reaches the mandatory retirement age of 75 next year. It is galling to know that he'll settle into that mansion, which many parishioners believe should be sold.

But at least his reign will be over. That is no small consolation.