Pose important questions to new bishop of Scranton

The following letter to the editor appeared in the Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice, March 10, 2010:

Pose important questions to new bishop of Scranton

I read the interview with the new bishop and was compelled to reply with my thoughts. I was wondering who was responsible for the questions, was this directed by your staff reporter or was it scripted by the diocese? Change the names of bishops Timlin, Martino, or Bambera and the answers are the same.

These men should be commended for being loyal team players.

Where are the answers to the tough questions?

What does he think the effects of the clergy abuse and cover-up scandal has on his diocese? What is the future of Catholic education in the diocese? When if ever will they pay what is owed to the teachers? Will he recognize a teachers' union? Will the diocese continue to invest in real estate ventures while they continue to close churches and consolidate parishes? Will this bishop be open to the people or will he hide behind a spokesman?

I can't help but believe that this interview, and this letter was and will be influenced by the amount of money spent by the diocese on advertising dollars. In the interest of fair and equal reporting and truth I would welcome the new bishop's comments on these questions should this letter ever be published.

Ed Mattie
Dallas