VOTF, NJ plans to disrupt Mass this Sunday

Evidently some disgruntled ex-parishioners at Saint Joseph's Parish in Mendham, NJ (I'm guessing a small number) are in a snit over the new pastor.

From a VOTF e-mail forwarded to me, some background:

"Fr. Ken Lasch was pastor for 21 years and retired from there 2 years ago after trying to heal the parish and giving his parishioners a wonderful formation in Vat. II pastoral life--spiritually rich, collegial, consultative, encouraging their involvement in many ministries and the flourishing of their gifts and talents."

Upon the retirement of this paragon, the letter informs us that:

"Overnight, with no consultation with the people of the parish, he was replaced by Fr. Joseph Anginoli, You might say he is not a good fit for this community. His style of leadership is not in keeping with a parish formed in Vatican II spirituality. He began his stay there by dismissing the Advisory Board, and canceling programs (a retreat that they had planned for over a year, VOTF meeting, and other outreach programs for the poor which were a tradition there). He made it quite clear that he was the boss and people had to either accept it or leave."

Gee. A pastor who makes it clear that he's...a pastor. Horrors!

Anyway, it seems some people got ticked off over the new pastor (after all...he cancelled a VOTF meeting!) and left the parish. Hearing that Bishop Serritelli has planned to visit the parish this Sunday...

They have formed a plan, duly outlined by the VOTF lady:

"Their plan is to attend the 10:30 AM Liturgy this Sunday, Feb.12th and to stand up and leave if he talks about money. They will then proceed outside to demonstrate their objections to the situation there. They are looking to VOTF members to assist with this demonstration."

The letter, signed by Theresa Padovano, VOTF/NJ, pleads:

"Please come to increase the support for their VOICE. This is the only Voice they have been afforded by this system of feudalism. Let the bishop know that we are the People of God and we won't be treated like pawns of the feudal lords. WE WILL NOT PAY FOR OUR OWN OPPRESSION!"

Then there are the practical concerns:

"They also need our support making placards for the event. Please e-mail us at info@votfnj.org and let us know if you will be able to help making placards and if you would be willing to join us a St. Joseph's--Feb. 12, l0:30 PM."

Helpfully, Ms. Padovano provides suggesting wording for the protest signs:

Possible messages for the placards:

* WANTED! A SHEPHERD, NOT A HIRELING!
* WANTED! A BISHOP WHO LISTENS!
* WANTED! A COLLEGIAL PASTOR!
* WANTED! A VATICAN II BISHOP!
* WE HAVE A LEADERSHIP CRISIS!

Once again, Voice of the Fuddled chooses the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass as the venue for its perennial foot-stomping.