Dear Bishop Knestout,
We, the undersigned individual parishioners of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Norfolk, respectfully request that you respond to this letter. We are concerned that your silence may be due to misinterpretations or other conveyances concerning the abrupt and disturbing removal of our pastor, Father Joseph Metzger.
Surely you understand how much the parish as a whole loves Father Joe, but this letter does not belabor that point. At this time, we wish to heal the flock that has been so well led and loved by Father. From the meeting hall that was named after him, to the new library and additional rooms he oversaw installed, to his much-loved participation in youth ministry, to, well, what have you, his influence pervades Blessed Sacrament and has been sorely missed these past six months.
Please understand that the main sentiment behind any displeasure is concern for Father Joe's good reputation. With this in mind, we humbly ask that you forgive any undo zealousness from any of us.
We believe Father Joe to be a true "fisher of men" and a (very) good shepherd. Nonetheless, we think we have come to better understand your actions. As prelate of the Church, especially in these trying times of scandal, your responsibilities are truly awesome. We say this without sycophancy, but with true respect for your position and the broad ramifications of your decisions.
Your excellency, some of us do wish you could have been more transparent with and responsive to our parish council, which we feel might have served a temporary hierarchical function within the diocese, facilitating some communication and quelling rumors. To be truthful in the eyes of God, some of us may have become angry about this, perceiving it to be an arrogance and condescension on your part. As this was always unlikely, if not undoubtedly not the case, we ask for your forgiveness in this matter.
Whatever the diocesan decision regarding Father Joe, we shall accept your wisdom and remain thankful for the many years he has been allowed to remain our pastor, indeed in excess of usual lengths of service.
We are very grateful for your having taken the time to read this letter, and we pray that you will be able to respond as we ask, in some manner at your discretion, for the significant good we feel it could convey to our parish and the faith we all share.
