FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 26, 2006

STATEMENT CONCERNING REVEREND MONSIGNOR JOHN WOOLSEY

FROM JOSEPH ZWILLING, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

"The guilty plea entered today by Reverend Monsignor John Woolsey is a sad but necessary step towards healing for the parishioners of Saint John the Martyr Parish where he served.  While it can be gravely disappointing to learn of a betrayal of trust by any individual, particularly by a priest, justice does demand accountability for criminal wrongdoing.  Accordingly, the Archdiocese of New York cooperated fully with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office during its investigation of this matter.  The District Attorney’s Office conducted its investigation in a professional manner.  For this, all can be grateful.           

 "The Archdiocese is committed to proper stewardship of the monies entrusted to its parishes and agencies.  Parishioners throughout the Archdiocese can be assured that an effective financial reporting system for the parishes is in place, audits are being conducted on a regular basis, and pastors are being provided ongoing training in appropriate and effective financial administration.

"We ask for prayers for all those who have been hurt by or in any way involved in this case."

XXX