March 11, 2009 – Boston –Voice of the Faithful fully supports the principle of increased lay participation in the governance and administration of our dioceses and parishes in concert with our bishops and pastors. However, contrary to some press reports, we have not initiated specific legislation either at the national or at the state level to force this participation.

At the national level, we support education of the faithful on our baptismal rights and responsibilities with regard to increased responsibilities and active participation on diocesan and parish finance and pastoral councils based upon the talents and skill sets of competent professionals.

Many dioceses and parishes today lack meaningful lay participation in such councils and fail to provide transparent and accountable financial statements to their parishioners. Given the most recent financial scandals in Connecticut, including the case of Father Michael Jude Fay, imprisoned for embezzling $1.4 million from his Darien parish, it is understandable that many Catholics see greater need for skilled lay involvement and oversight with regard to finances.  We encourage and applaud efforts by skilled lay Catholics and clergy to correct these failings and help us move toward a more responsible and accountable Church.