Barb, to apply to the hotel for reservations ONLINE is there a "code" we need to enter to get the special SNAP rate??? Thanks. Jim

Thank you, Ms. Dorris for your posting of 3 more problematic papal candidates. I wish it could be safe for you to just say, "these cardinals in particular, should not be made pope". I understand why you haven't, but that is exactly part of what the catholic church heirarchy must change. The new Pope must be able to fight for and ensure freedom of speech and open public opinion and public action regarding past heinous crimes perpetrated by Catholic prelates; wherever it was that they worked and lived. So, I will say it for you: Dear members of the conclave, DO NOT ELECT any of the 12 priests first named by Survivors Network of Priest Abuse last week, nor any of the 3 priests named today, March 12, 2013.

Thank you for staying in Rome at this critical juncture. I only wish you did not have to leave this week. I am grateful that Mr. Clohessy will be able to stay longer, but do wish that you both and your co-traveler, worker whose name escapes me at this moment, as well.

I don't care if the American news commentator who isn't even Catholic, says that now it is no longer time for discussion, only just to vote, as the cardinals proceed into the Sistine Chapel for the conclave to begin. In fact, I pray that the cardinals in the conclave will indeed discuss everything currently involved in this challenge. And, I pray that each of you will continue to speak, NOW. I believe you will be heard now, by more people and God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit better now, than ever before!!! YOUR PLEAS WILL BE HEARD IF YOU CONTINUE TO SPEAK THEM NOW. The time is right.

Think you

Thank you! I admire your sincerity and courage.

Sorry, here is the link which features Msgr. Jacob Vellian performing public ministry.:
http://kottayamad.org/purathunamaskaram-at-kaduthuruthy-2/

Barbara, we've been in touch occasionally in the past. Until now I have not wanted to take any type of legal action against the Catholic Church. My Bishop and my diocese continues to be supportive. My case was sent to the CDF after my diocese and its council found it credible. My abuser was from India, going to school here, and it was back in 1973-74. My diocese published information in local bulletins asking others to step forward no one did. No surprise, it was known he and I were "good friends". then he went back to India. I found him again in the US several years ago leading a Syro-Malabar Mission out in CA. It was at that time I was ready to make a formal complain to the church and the Benton Harbor, MI police Dept. where the repeated abuse occurred. Obviously statute of limitations prohibited any legal action at this time, but it made my case more credible for the the church.

The CDF came back to us with a letter that basically said:
1. Since it was so long ago, and
2. I was the only person who has spoken up against this man
3. His Bishop was contacted in India (Bishop Moolakat) and told the CDF Fr. Jacob Vellian was elderly, retired and NOT involved in active ministry, so he was no longer a threat.
(NOTE: When our Diocese notified HIS diocese in CA they said he was in India on vacation, but would put him on immediate leave of absence when he got back. He then decided he was going to retire, and stayed in India and never came back to the USA! What a coincidence!)
4. therefore the CDF ruled that as a "penance" Fr. Jacob Vellian was to say a mass every Friday for the victims of sexual abuse. (GAG!)

Well, since then I have found a picture of him on THEIR diocese website actively performing public ministry. I also found that about 6 months ago he appears to be planning on coming to the US to Orlando FL for a Syro-Malabar gathering. When our Bishop's office contacted his Bishops office they said oh they didn't think he could make the trip. (It appeared his name was on the program at that time.) Our Bishops office called AGAIN and they confirmed he would NOT be coming, his name was on the program just because he had in the passed directed this group of singers that would be singing.

Well, after finding this link with him obviously in good health and performing ministry, I am pissed and wounded enough about his Bishop lying to the CDF and the CDF not following up on the Bishop's lies. I'm wondering what my chance are to sue, as a civil suit Bishop Moolakat, Fr. Jacob Vellian, and his ArchDiocese in India for misrepresenting to the CDF the situation.

I want to underscore my diocese as been very helpful and supportive, but must follow the cannon law, or whatever code they have to follow. I'm sick and tired of tracking this guy and having his Bishop cover his butt and lie to everyone. I'm still in counseling and had left the catholic church but came back after some healing. But want this guy stopped for performing ministry!

I just saw you on RUssia today network. Bravo, your words will reach millions, its a privilege to follow you. It's long overdue to challenge the status quo of the Catholic Church. Get the message out.

Hi Barbra, I've posted my story, and made several comments. I understand you are my point person, what does that mean? I'm not good at navigating around websites, I wish to contribute any way I am able.

Hi Barbara, I just joined yesterday. How do I find other in my area of Maryland who I might share, give and receive the gift of hope. Thank you!

Hi Barbara, I want to volunteer for snap. I think you have no need in St. Louis so I am thinkng of Chicago. My Dad died and I want to get out of NJ. Any ideas? Cheryl Christopher 973 978 4154.