ELMA, N.Y. (WKBW) — At a time when pressure is mounting on Buffalo Catholic Diocese Bishop Richard Malone, one Southtowns parish is speaking loudly and clearly; saying the bishop needs to resign.
Father Gene Ulrich, the pastor of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Elma will send a copy of a letter to Bishop Malone on Wednesday, sharing the results of a survey by the parish council following masses.
Of the 47 people surveyed by the parish council following masses, 32 parishioners said the bishop should resign or retire; while 13 continue to support him and two people said they support him but he should still resign.
An e-survey among people, “very active in parish life” turned out even worse for the bishop:
- Asked whether they had confidence in the bishop’s leadership to restore trust and credibility in the diocese, only four said yes, while 24 said no.
- Asked whether they called for the bishop’s immediate resignation, 23 said yes, with four saying no.
Ulrich ended the letter by saying, "it is difficult to see how, with continuing disclosures, that you can effectively lead the Catholic Church at Buffalo. For the greater good you should offer your resignation to the Holy Father."
Bishop Malone has said he has no plans to resign, but there are multiple efforts among the clergy and parishioners to oust him from his position.
You can read the full letter here.
