The Priest’s Council of the Archdiocese of New York met for two hours today with His Eminence, Edward Cardinal Egan.  As representatives of the clergy of the Archdiocese, we came together to meet with our Archbishop and to discuss with him the letter that has circulated among some of the priests and in the media.

We are appalled that the letter was sent anonymously, and that it can and has been used by those who seek to damage the Church.  As today’s meeting has shown, it is possible to meet and discuss any issue with Cardinal Egan, and if any priest has a concern he can raise it and discuss it at any time.  A letter of this sort does a grave disservice to the entire Church, and to this Archdiocese in particular.

We are also upset and dismayed that our Archbishop has been personally vilified in this manner.  At today’s meeting, the members of the Priest’s Council reiterated their support for His Eminence.  We stand with him in confidence, and look forward to his continued ministry to the clergy, religious, and laity of the Archdiocese of New York.