OAKLAND (CA)
National Catholic Reporter
by Monica Clark | Apr. 24, 2013
Oakland, Calif. —
Every Sunday morning for the last three years, Tim Stier, former pastor of Corpus Christi Parish in Fremont, Cailf., has stood outside Oakland’s Cathedral of Christ the Light to call attention to the need for what he calls “structural reform” within the church. Sometimes he is alone, holding a large sign that reads, “Include the Excluded: Women, Gay Persons, Abuse Survivors.” At other times, a handful of supporters joins him in the two-hour vigil.
On April 14, the third anniversary of his demonstration, about two dozen adults gathered in solidarity with him. Some were members of the Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests. Others belonged to Women of Magdala, a local group advocating for the ordination of women. There were also gay and lesbian Catholics and a few of his Fremont parishioners.
“It’s important to stand with him,” said Patty Leal, who has known Stier since he presided at her wedding 32 years ago. “I have such great respect for him. I know what it has cost him to follow his conscience.”
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