Fr. Corapi is not fit for priestly ministry, SOLT declares

There are many saddened Catholics today, as a press release is issued by Rev. Gerard Sheehan, of the Society of Our Lady of the Holy Trinity (SOLT), Fr. Corapi's community. SOLT claims that Fr. Corapi, while inspiring countless numbers of Christians (whom Fr. Corapi now calls his "fans"), is now misleading them. The blunt press release continues with a very detailed account of Fr. Corapi's dealings, and detailed explanation of the investigation findings.

Rev. Sheehan states: "While SOLT does not typically comment publicly on personnel matters, it recognizes that Father John Corapi, through his ministry, has inspired thousands of faithful Catholics, many of whom continue to express their support of him. SOLT also recognizes that Father Corapi is now misleading these individuals through his false statements and characterizations. It is for these Catholics that SOLT, by means of this announcement, seeks to set the record straight."

It calls for Fr. Corapi to surrender his possessions, who "holds legal title to over $1 million in real estate, numerous luxury vehicles, motorcycles, an ATV, a boat dock, and several motor boats, which is a serious violation of his promise of poverty as a perpetually professed member of the society," and return to the community. Unfortunately, Fr. Corapi resigned from the community in June, with the issuance of his first statement as the "Black Sheepdog."

The final blow states: "SOLT’s prior direction to Fr. John Corapi not to engage in any preaching or teaching, the celebration of the sacraments or other public ministry continues. Catholics should understand that SOLT does not consider Fr. John Corapi as fit for ministry."

Many bloggers, and plain old observers, knew something was not quite right, when Fr. Corapi came out publicly endorsing his "brand." Claiming his innocence, but still giving information in dribs and drabs, left the faithful confused and unclear. This press release makes many things clear. His many "fans" will await his statement.

Gerard Nadal, MD, in his blog post, calls this update of events "nothing short of tragic," and invites the faithful to continue in a Divine Mercy Novena for Fr. Corapi. The faithful continues to receive signs that our priests, who are always in need of our prayers, need our prayers now more than ever. The more of a celebrity status, the more vulnerable the priest can be to attack by forces which lead them into temptation. Remember, that each Thursday is the commemoration of the priesthood, and to offer your Holy Communions especially on that day for our priests.

St. John Vianney, pray for our priests!

Read the entire press release here.