BishopAccountability.org
	Putnam Responds to Coverage By J. Edward Putnam The Post-Standart August 21, 2007 http://www.syracuse.com/poststandard/stories/index.ssf?/base/opinion-3/118768690584100.xml&coll=1 I wish to respond to the overly sensational and less-than-accurate portrayal of my record of involvement with young men and women at St. James Church in Skaneateles in 1992. Media reports have indicated inaccurately that this involvement took place over a seven-year period of time. Only during 1992 did I meet with members of the confirmation class in private, confidential sessions designed to allow them freedom of expression about their changing spiritual, social, family and personal growth. These sessions were announced to the congregation and to the parents and explained to the young people in advance. In retrospect, this portion of the confirmation program turned out to be an unfortunate decision. Fifteen years later, several of these individuals now indicate that the sessions caused discomfort and embarrassment. By 2007 standards, my engagement in these sessions is seen as falling within the lower end of a wide range of sexual misconduct. It is with that understanding that I agreed to sign a document submitting to the discipline of the bishop which includes suspension from functioning as a priest for 20 years. This was presented to me as an option to avoid a negative, lengthy ecclesiastical trial. Having agreed to submit to the bishop's discipline, the resulting negative energy, the depth of personal attack and the media exposure which have occurred is disturbing. My family and friends have been devastated by commentary and innuendo which have led the public to believe things about me which are less than accurate. I have apologized to the individuals who made allegations and to the parish in which I served as rector. My intentions were good, but my choices were inappropriate.
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