Diocese disputes Pelotte report
Independent Staff
Bishop Donald E. Pelotte of the Diocese of Gallup speaks during
a Mass held in 2004 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup.
[Independent File Photo] |
GALLUP A news story about the Gallup Police
report on Bishop Donald E. Pelotte's injuries generated a response
from the Rev. James E. Walker.
Walker, the vicar general for the Diocese of Gallup, issued the
following response Tuesday.
"I know that many are concerned about the bishop's condition
and there is much speculation as to what happened to cause Bishop's
injuries."
"I ask you to please focus on what we know for certain: Bishop
was alone in his home and there were no signs of a struggle, forced
entry, presence of another person, or missing items from the bishop's
home. Bishop has responded repeatedly, when asked about what happened,
merely that he fell. Bishop's injuries, although great, are consistent
with injuries sustained by falling down a staircase, landing on
a ceramic tile floor and possibly hitting the wall; which is all
feasible considering the layout of Bishop's staircase and surrounding
area and consistent to the brief explanation Bishop has been able
to relate to us thus far."
"When Bishop Pelotte fully recovers I feel certain that he
will tell us as much as he can remember of this tragic incident.
Until that time, let us all use caution in speculating and/or causing
reason to speculate of what might have happened. Our focus and prayers
need to be on Bishop's recovery, and quick return to his people."
"I visited with Bishop earlier today," Walker concluded,
"and he continues to make reasonable progress."
In addition, the diocese also released a statement on Monday about
the meeting Walker held with the six priests who are members of
the Diocesan College of Consultors. According to the diocese, the
group discussed the on-going administration of the diocese, canonical
considerations, and communications.
"The Consultors unanimously decided that at the present time
the diocese is not canonically impeded," the release stated.
"That is to say, Bishop Pelotte is able to sufficiently communicate
so that the provisions of Canon Law regarding an 'impeded See' do
not apply to the situation facing the Diocese of Gallup at the present
time."
Pelotte continues to remain in serious but stable condition in the
intensive care unit at Phoenix's John C. Lincoln Hospital, chancery
officials said.
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Wednesday
August 1, 2007
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