First, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from my brother bishops, priests, laity, as well as people of good will. I want to acknowledge the interest and concerns that many have about this matter especially about the Priests for Life (PFL) and other related organizations.
It is my desire to have a fruitful dialogue with Father [Frank] Pavone. Second, I want to make a distinction between my relationship with Father Pavone as a priest of the Diocese of Amarillo of which I am the bishop, and my relationship with Father Pavone as the Director of the PFL organization and other related organizations.
I have always supported the proclamation of the Gospel of Life. It is my sincere desire that the ministry to promote and defend the dignity of human life, from conception to a natural death, is successful and fruitful so that the gift of human life is recognized as a fundamental value for our society. I only want what is best for all organizations that support and promote those teachings that come from the heart of the Catholic Church on the dignity and gift of human life.
As a diocesan bishop, I am obligated to show concern for the well being and ministry of all our priests. I support with no exception the various ministries that the priests of our Diocese carry out for the Common Good of the Church. Thus, I am seeking clarifications and answers to concerns about the administration of the PFL organization and other related entities of which Father Pavone has a leadership role.
Principally, I called Father Pavone home to his Diocese of Amarillo because of my concern for him as one of my priests. The relationship of a bishop to a priest is one of a father to a son and a brother to a brother. I have asked him to pray and reflect on the sacramental ministerial priesthood that he and I share in Christ Jesus. It has been my desire to have a direct and clear dialogue with all our priests.
Thus, I am inviting Father Pavone to a private meeting between him and me in my office on Oct. 13 to discuss his spiritual progress during this time of prayer and reflection. Finally, I invite all concerned to join me in prayer for both Father Pavone and myself for a fruitful and productive dialogue. In the end, it is my desire to see PFL and all pro-life ministries flourish.