During the course of a recent internal review of St. Matthew’s financial records, certain irregularities in the recording of tuition payments were identified. Because I am committed to maintaining the integrity of the parish’s finances, these concerns were treated with the utmost seriousness and an investigation was immediately started.

This past week, I discussed my concerns with parish leaders, who as always, shared with me their wisdom and advice. I have also contacted the archdiocese, which provided practical guidance; the Oak Creek Police Department, which has begun its own investigation; and our insurance company, Catholic Mutual, which provides coverage for any financial losses of this kind.

At this time, no one has been accused of wrong-doing, nor have the police charged anyone with a crime related to this investigation. However, based on a prudent sense of caution, archdiocesan policy recommends that any person directly associated with financial irregularities be suspended with pay for the duration of the investigation, and I have followed that recommendation.

Suspension does not in any way negate the presumption of innocence to which each of us is entitled. I pray that St. Matthew parish members will maintain this presumption until civil authorities prove otherwise.

In order to assist the investigation, early next week some school families will be receiving letters requesting tuition-payment information.    By responding immediately these families will help us resolve this matter as quickly as possible.

Because this is an ongoing investigation, I cannot provide more details, nor would it be appropriate to speculate about the irregularities. It is my canonical responsibility to maintain the accuracy and transparency of the parish’s finances, which I have done to the best of my ability.

But it is also my personal and moral responsibility to see that the reputations and legal rights of everyone connected with this matter are protected. And I believe it is our collective responsibility to be truly Christian people who refrain from judging anyone else, during the investigation or afterward, whatever the results may be. This is our moment to rise to the occasion and to be the Catholic community we profess to be, and I expect us to do no less.

I ask for your prayers and patience during this difficult time and promise to share additional information as soon as it becomes available.