An international organization which speaks on the behalf of those abused by members of the clergy has said it is “appalled” by the manner in which a matter involving a local priest was handled by the Bishop of the Diocese of Roseau, Gabriel Malzaire.
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP) also took a shot at parishioners who have thrown their support behind the priest, describing them as ‘misguided.’
Fr. Reginald Lafleur was sent on administrative leave by the Bishop Malzaire, after a woman accused him of sexually abusing her 19 years ago. However, after a meeting between Bishop Malzaire and Grand Bay church leaders, it was agreed that he would return to the parish before the end of the month.
“We’re appalled by the recklessness of Dominica Catholic Bishop Malzaire in the case of Fr. Reginald Lafleur, an alleged child sex offender,” SNAP said in an email to Dominica News Online.
The organization said the ‘misguided’ parishioners should not have allowed the bishop “into keeping kids in possible danger just because an alleged child molester happens to have a strong following.”
“The personal popularity of an accused predator priest is irrelevant,” it said.
Earlier this month news broke that Bishop Malzaire had sent Fr. Lafleur on administrative leave after the woman, who called herself Jane Doe, alleged, in correspondence to him, that she was the victim of abuse while he served in Portsmouth.
However, the bishops decision did not go down well with the parishioners of St Patrick’s Church in Grand Bay where Fr. Lafleur was serving.
They gathered outside the church on the evening of June 7, 2013 in protest action and vowed to continue protesting until they met with the bishop.
The following day, amid protest and a carnival-like atmosphere, Bishop Malzaire met with church leaders and one of the things agreed upon was that Fr. Lafleur would return to the St. Patrick’s parish in Grand Bay either “before month end or thereafter” but he won’t be removed from the parish.
SNAP is now calling upon all those who may have suffered abuse from any member of the clergy in Dominica to come forward and speak to the secular authorities. “That’s the only way kids will be safer – when those with knowledge or suspicions of child sex crimes speak up,” the organization said.
It said matters such as these should be dealt with only by professionals. “Child sexual abuse is a crime. It should be dealt with by the independent professionals in law enforcement, not the biased amateurs in church offices,” SNAP stated.
SNAP is the old and largest support group in the world for clergy abuse victim. It was founded in 1988 and has more than 12,000 members worldwide.
The organization claims it has members who have been abused by religious figures of all denominations, including nuns, rabbis, bishops, and Protestant ministers.
Belle beff for jeff…………….
Where did Christ go to in all of this mess…Booth clergy, parishioner and victim have to put Christ in the center of all of the this. Or else, the “smoke of the devil” will continue to invade the alter of sacrifice…
I’ll leave my comment for after the investigations are complete i hate all form of abusers i just need clarification on the witnesses part, would someone anyone sexually abuse someone with a lot of on lookers…
wat hell snap? a dam kick snap want
I child who is sexually abused suffers lifelong crippling injury. Sometimes the memories are so violent and cruel that they are repressed for decades. Many children suffering from these violent sex crimes do not remember their abuse until decades later. I was raped and abused by a priest when I was a child yet did not remember my abuse for thirty years.
Yet a child molester will continue to abuse children until stopped.
The woman who came forward should be honored for her bravery in naming the crime and the criminal.
If you know of child abuse or have a reasonable suspicion of child abuse, report it to the police.
did u report and expose the criminal? Encouraging u to do so nw
To Tim Lennon, I agree with your comment, those who are protesting maybe they have never been in that position, and some of them might have but chose to ignore it for what ever the reasons might be, Abuse can take years to come out because children suppress it most of the time, also they are not encourage to talk about these things, and when they do they are not believed, especially of certain people in our society. Our people are really showing up their ignorance big time.
If a child reports to you that he or she has been abused by ANYBODY please listen carefully. Listen not only to the words. Listen to the tone of the child’s voice. Study the facual expressions. Above all, be kind to the child. Chances are he or she is hurting, and afraid.
Please, please do NOT tell the child that he or she is making the story up. Children do not usually make up these kind of stories. You have a moral responsibiity to report it to the police.
Do not let anybody talk you out of doing so.
If the accused is a priest do not confront him. He will deny any wrong doing and do his best to kill the report.
Do not report it to a bishop. History shows that cases that have been reported to a bishop (any bishop) are not reported to the police. A bishop will intimidate the child. He will do his best to stop you from going to the police.
Go to the police. Work with them and help them do their job. There are probably others out there just like you waiting for somebody to speak up first. Their are likely other children afraid and hurting, with emotional scares that will last a lifetime unless somebody starts the healing process soon.
Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill,D.D. Pentecostal Evangelist.
Tell SNAP Shut up and leave our priest alone. They don’t know the story, we do! And we believe our priest completely.
As my granny taught me:” Believe is for the church and truth is for the court”.
Your granny did not teach you well as much as she thinks she knows it all. I hope she is still alive for with that type of mentality how can she be saved?
Believe and Truth is for the Church, primarily of God and for God.
The Court has no truth. They prosecute criminals and sentence them based on the evidence and the arguments of the prosecutors and defense lawyers. Some people are falsely arrested, imprisoned, convicted and sentenced. Tell me, does the Court have the truth? Never! The Court is not God. Food for thought.
I would love to meet your grandmother. l am sure she is/was a wise woman.
Virtually everyone who has opined on this allegation has disagreed on manner the bishop handled the matter.The parishioners of Grand Bay share the very the same sentiment and that is the fundamental reason for the protest.Be reminded that the protest was not to proclaim the priest innocence but was to oppose the premature judgement of the bishop. After thorough investigation and interrogation by qualified people and in their findings they find Lafleur guilty then he should go. SNAP has jumped on the wagon to state the people support is misleading and that is a very irresponsible and bias statement against Grand Barians.
I think DNO needs to let us know who the victim is.
why? so u can judge and redicule her? get a life.
DNO excuse me for asking this question somewhat late, but I’d like some clarification. What EXACTLY is this priest accused of doing? Is the young lady claiming that she was raped? Touched? Kissed? What is it?
An accusation of “child molestation” is rather extreme and destructive to one’s reputation. If it is that he touched her bottom for instance, then he shouldn’t be labelled as having “molested” the young lady…let’s get these comments under control and in line with the actual accusation.
I think that de victim should contact SNAP. same goes for other victims out there who may be hiding in de closet because of shame, embarrassment and ridicule……
i am sure there are other victims out there hurting
To all of you who quick to judge Judge not says the Lord. She has never claimed that the priest sexually abused her ok people is touch and made sweet eyes. The Bishop did go about it the wrong way. First of all he should have not send this woman anywhere. This woman needs to be investigated fully how can so many people molest you your mom, dad, uncle, principal, teacher, priest, pastor, and the list goes on. This letter with all these names should have been an eye opening for te Bishop. Something is fishy. Why is she asking the church for money and is demanding that they pay of her loan etc. Why is she lying about her age. I know this woman very well she is closer to 40 thanearly 30’s. The Bishop, The youth Co-ordinator who is fanning the issue and the one from Porstmouth douglas needs to resgin immediately for their unprofessional approach. The woman from Possy helping to fan the issue why now you want to recuse yourself from it why did you send an apology to the priest and even want to offer him material things praise God he did not stoop low and accept your gifts. My question to all this is if you know the young lady is not lying cause you were the one who wrote the letter for her and sent her to youth co ordinator etc why now you apologising etc. I see no reason why SNAP is lambasing the Grandbay People not only Granbay people were there that Sunday. There were people there from Pointe Michel, Soufriere, Roseau, Canefield Massacre/Mahaut so get all you facts straight. He is their Parish priest and they protested over THE MANNER IN WHICH THE BISHOP HANDLED THE SITUATION NOT THE ALLEGATIONS. He has NO RESPECT for the St Patricks Parish he was to go and have a meeting with them informing them of what is going on but no those that pushing it had to take matters into their own hands and sent to media. another question why did you hide the girls name on the letter to the media Lord into your hands I place all this.
I am always happy to read comments as yours. The Media posted and broadcasted the information. I knew it was to discredit Fr. Lafleur.
I have stated that the Media as DNO should post her name and her complaints. These are hidden from us. Although they have no evidence, note how many of them as SNAP are lambasting the Priests and other priests. It is unfair accusation of our Priest.
I do not blame the Grand Bay people and all others who supported them. They stand by their Priest and want him back. It is as simple as that. God who knows, sees and hears all things wants him back in Grand Bay too.
I will not support and believe that woman. I doubt her credibility. Unless they produce the writing and it proves that she is correct, then I will believe her. Up to now we are denied from seeing and reading it. It leaves us who are on the side of justice and truth – those two words – to believe that Fr. Lafleur is innocent and that woman has bribed The Catholic Church, Bishop Malzaire. She should be arrested and charged for it appears that she is a troublemaker and deceitful person who is also an extortionist. She has committed a crime. For one, debasing Fr. Lafleur’s good character and reputation. This should be pursued.
God bless!
Many of you do not know the entire story. Jane Doe allegedly claimed that her uncle abused her, her mother’s boyfriend abused her and a whole list of people abuse her.
I am from Portsmouth and I know Jane Doe and trust me, she is of very questionable character. We all know Jane Doe and the relationships she has been involved in.
I cannot give more details but after hearing her accuse so many people and knowing her personally I think she needs psychiatric evaluation in order to ensure that what she is saying is actually true.
She has personal issues and mental ones. She should be examined by a psychiatrist.
Oh Justice, are you sure you are not talking about yourself? After all, reading your comments one can easily detect a big problem. A few disorders keep coming out of you every time you write. When one is so addicted to religious dogma that is something that should be treated before you fall into the hole. Addiction is addiction, a mental disorder.
some of the commenst misquote the Bishop. To me in all hiw direct quoted satements he has acted fairly, professionally and justly. May the truth come out in time, after the full investigation.
We are hoping to read that letter she produced which incriminated Fr. Lafleur. We should demand it.
I’m trying to understand what is really happening here.
The priest was accused and it looks like the Bishop got scared and instead of handling the matter professionally he allowed Granbayrians to dictate what shoudl be done.
I think it is time that the police intervene as well as (SNAP)Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests.
The victim should also take her case to SNAP.
Besides, the priest know what he did, if he did, or did not, and he should come out and let his faithful Grandbayrians know the truth.
Just a quick word to you. Do you know that the Jane Doe never said the priest sexually abused her, she said he he touched her backside and made sweet eyes to her. Also once a child molester always a child molester. Have you ever hear Fr La Fleur abuse or molest or act inappropriately in any other situation that involves children?? I am so upset about this entire situation. This Jane Doe and her family are out to get what they can from the Church. Please people get the facts first before defaming someone’s character.
As serious as this matter is of accusing Fr. Lafleur and tarnishing his good name, this Jane Doe is laughable. Why does she not come out of hiding and show herself including that letter of hers?
catholic, perhaps you dont know that touching anyone inappropriately can be considered a physical or sexual assault. Why did this man touched a young girl on her behind, and to add insult to injury, gave her a sweet eye? What was his plan. It is so easy to cry that ones name is being tarnished but you know catholic, most of the priests that were brought before the courts for molesting and raping little children were concerned about their names being tarnished. Who is trying to tarnish this priest’ name? As a man of the cloth, he should have kept his hands off that little girl. The church on the other hand was concerned about its (holy body)reputation). The hiearchy should have thought about that before they sent out these sexual perverts all over the world to preach the gospel.
when there is jealousy want more can one expect. i hope all those who cases those pain never have their spouse into any accused act
Amid protest and a carnival-like atmosphere. Boyyy,, Grandbay People too like carnival.
We the public is still confused about the extent as to, what this priest did, and why the bishop continues to shield him as he baskets in the rich partying sun of Trinbago. We must continue to ask our elected officials, what are you doing about this tragic affair, and why the long silence. Lets be fair, this is a case that the state needs to investigate, the sooner the better because, we have a citizen of D/ca crying out for justice and a government that remains silent weeks after the complaint. Something is wrong with this picture, and one can only guess that the government is in bed with the church. Congratulations to this important (SNAP)organization which is on target here, and we should welcome that not investigating could have a negative impact on the government of D/ca. And l may add, the Bishop’s poor handling of the case defies common sense. l hope he will step aside as bishop until judgment is reached.
I don’t think you read the article
Yes Me, l read the article too many times. Frankly, my comment covers this topic from the first day it hit the press which is many days ago. Sorry if l disappoint you.
Read a few preceding comments. Why are you confused? Some of us are not confused. We have the holy spirit of God and his enlightenment. Only those who lack godly enlightenment will be confused and accuse the priest of what he did not do because of a jane doe who has yet to show her face and produce that letter. If the government intervenes, then that letter should be produced. We want to read what is in it. The fact that it is hidden, it means to some of us that the story is not true. It is making a mountain out of a molehill and a storm in a teacup.
It is because you lack common sense for one who is supposedly educated. The Lord reveals such matters only to the humble of heart and those who do not insult his Church and accuse His Priest of what he did not do.
Justice, Justice, Justice, Good Lord, you again. I am more confused about your logic, mentality the more l read your comments. With your hollier than thou mess l realize that your poor misunderstanding of the issue at hand, and your religious ideations are what drives you. Like the many that profess they are soldiers of Christ, you seem to lack the realization that pain lingers, that destruction of the spirit disrupt lives. You dont care if someone is destroyed physically or psychologically, if a priest did it then it is OKay. Some of my clients show this attitude, and justice, they are the most difficult mental patients l have had to deal with. They are like you. You should understand that saying that “wolves come in sheep’s clothing.” Your writings tell me that you are writing because you want to be entertained. l can see that you are a lonely soul calling the name of the Lord for no reason at all. Sadly, this is what we have been seeing for the past hundred of years. This is what confusing many in our societies today. You, this case is an example of this confusion l am talking about. This woman no doubt trusted this priest, only to have a disappointment that is destroying her. Well justice, while people like you, and the hypocrits that spread your religious mess we are going to write, speak, and show that your confused logic makes no sense, and no longer have relevance in our world today. I realize you have nothing to do but play with your computer talking that religious nonesense. l really dont want to give you the satisfaction by replying to your juvenile comments but l had to get this one in.
I am lost for words by the action of these on the Sunday morning.I cannot believe that people love wrong more than what is right. I really would like to know what is the role of the priest in this situation?
Don’t people ever think b4 they talk. I don’t no who telling the truth or not but I think a proper investigation showed take place b4 he is sent back to serve. Not because he nice that doesn’t mean he didn’t do it. So many children have been abused by priest and people thought they were nice too.
I am very astonish at SNAP one sided view, is not one innocent before proven guilty? I read an article in the St Croix Abis and i cote ” The woman made the accusations against Lafleur in a scries of letters to Bishop Gabriel Malzaire, the head of Dominica diocese. In one of her letters to Malzaire the woman wrote, I need money and it seems that i am being ignored.” did SNAP read what i read before making their statement? i would approach that issue with extreme caution, she clearly state her intention to the bishop.so people stop judging the priest before seeing the evidence.
I wonder Daniel, if this woman would just come out of the blue and ask for money. Do you think this is a case of blackmail? Was promised money to keep her quiet, and after all these years the money is yet to be paid? lf that is the case l would think she has a right to money promised. Now Daniel, regardless of what transpired, someone accused another with a wrongful act, the bishop’s decisions, the government of Dca’s silence, makes the handling of this matter questionable, and SNAPP, like many others (are not arguing about money requested, offered or paid), believe the behavior of the (church)authorities which continues to be the same where the outcome were many children damaged. They are seeing a possible crime by a member of the clergy is going nowhere, should be investigated and justice served. You see Daniel, this is not a one sided view. We do not know what happened, so l will not make any judgment but, something seriously happened. The history of this type of behavior is difficult to take. Ask the many victims and their families. We must not take such accusations so lightly. Who knows if there are more victims. That is why the response from the public both local & international question the church’s “credibility.”, and asking for government intervention, and the Bishop’s removal of this case until it is solved.
there are other abuse taking place in our Country ( the people too free madame speaker} are we going to protest about such dangerous statement oh no we love our pm too much
What an unfair world of people and hypocrites. The Word of the Lord: “Let all who are without sin caste the first stone. Before lambasting anyone, first pull the splinter out of your eyes. Judge not that you may not be judged accordingly and two-fold.” Pay heed!
One thing we know, throughout those years is that there are many men who abused women and children and right in their own family. Under those conditions, some had babies for them which some of them did not support and some refused to recognize them as their children. If the State were to prosecute them, there would not be room and time enough at the Court House to do so.
Bring them out of the closet to prosecute them. It will be done out in the open for the public to hear and to see. If you do you will get a lot of money out of them and become rich. If they do not have money to compensate you for those years of abuse, they will be sent to prison.
The end of the world will come and you people, SNAP and other critics will still be arguing about this as fire and brimstones, hot coals will be raining down on your heads and as you are walking your way to Hell because you did not give God his dues in this life as you should. Instead you spent your God-given allotted time lambasting, persecuting and prosecuting the priests even the good priests and the Catholic Church rather than save your souls. Woe to all of you. Your end will come and soon enough. Stay awake and keep persecuting His Church and His Priests and you will experience his wrath in time! You are not smart people. God is not amused by your actions.
I have been told never open my mouth to say anything for it comes true. In this case, do not write anything for it will come true. Well, it has been proven in time that what I have stated have come true. God gives us an insight into those matters. He inspires which is why I can state what I have just stated. You, SNAP and critics will not escape God’s fair judgement and recompense on you. You will not be able to run and hide for Our Lord said He will find everyone and give them what they deserve. I reiterate, keep on doing what you are doing and later experience what is in store for you. It is only a matter of time. I do know that all you critics are cursed. Your actions and words gave you away. I feel sorry for you.
Some people think because cases such as this take a long time to the open it is not true, but it is true. Some people have no idea how hard and/or difficult it is to come forward. I believe everyone who state they were abused by clergy, family members and the like. SEXUAL ABUSE EXISTS. The abusers do not hold a plaque on their foreheads.
The rights of both the alleged abused persons and the alleged abuser should be considered, i.e innocent until proven guilty, but the church MUST take decisive action very soon and cannot stand idly by as in the past. If possible,a statement should be out to update Catholic Christians by now and stop the irresponsible speculation.
The Grandbay Parishioners need to let a proper, objective investigation take place and not interfere. Their behaviour was out of order to say the least. The situation is unfortunate, and we hope it is not the case, but where is the empathy, in case the accuser was a relative, would they respond the same? Would they throw her to the wolves?
The Bishop/other officials must be careful and should not allow themselves to be intimidated. The Church cannot police itself. That’s what happened in all those other abuse cases for decades. Do not repeat the mistakes of the past. I’m sure Fr. Reggie understands what must be done. We pray for them both.
Exactly, the church cannot police itself, so why should the hurch take the action they took. Let the courts (police) investigate and decide. This he say she say business deals justicetro no one.
I have been following this case for nonths. One thing still puzzles me.
If it is alledged that a crime took place why was it not investigated by the police?
This is not only a religious matter involving the right of a priest to practice his profession or fulfill his calling within the church. This is a civil/criminal matter calling for a judicial investigation.
The church has a right to investigate a charge against a priest to determine if he should be serving the the office at all, or if he should be suspended, and for how long, etc. This can be a private church matter. It need not involved the public.
But if a law has been broken it is a different matter. Does Dominica have a law against the inappropriate touching of an underage girl? If so the violation of that law by a person in a position of trust must be considered serious.
How can the church be allowed to conduct its own investigation in a case like this? The Catholic Church does not have a good records of investigating its priests. The public has no way of even knowing if an investigation ever took place. In most cases the priest is simply transferred to a different parish. History shows that many or most of them continue to offend.
Unfortunately, no matter how many complaints the bishop receives the career of a pedophile priest usually doesn’t end until it is dealt with in court and the man receives a conviction that puts him out of the ministry.
Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.
Amen
If that is all you have to say then you have nothing to say and contribute nothing, not even to this dialogue.
God did not say amen to that and not from sinners. I would love to know their lifestyle and then I will conclude if they are saints or sinners. One thing, there are no saints on earth; only sinners and some worst than others. God knows who they are, how much and how frequently they sin and exactly what they do. Therefore, let those critics examine their conscience.
As the wise and inspired late Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen said, “God has two pictures of us, what we are and what we should be.” Take that and smoke it in your pipe and conform to the Holy Will of God. He knows who you are, what you do and behind closed doors. Every one of you, save your souls for the day is coming when you will face God for your eternal judgment. See about your personal affairs and your soul lest you perish. Be fair for God is taking note of your ignorance and hypocritical statements as imbedded in your thought, heart, mind and soul.
With back pay? I said from the start, that I had a problem with the way the Bishop just dissed Reggie. Don’t mind how i call him! his my boy. But he doesn’t know who “Frabo” is. One day I’ll boot-up with him. WE grew up together wi! hehehehe I’m happy for him. And pardner!! learn your lesson eh! don’t ever let this scandal happen to you again. You could resign anytime you like and find a nice woman. A stranger. I’ll look for one for you when you ready.
Much love Fr. Reggie.
The bishop really demonstrated his lack of leadership skills on this Sunday in question. A thorough investigation into the matter had to be carried out to determine the credibility of both sides. But by telling the congregation that the priest will return before month end, he was infact indicating to everyone the ladies complaint was without credibility.
IT IS REALLY PATHETIC WHAT SOME PEOPLE DEMONSTRATE/PROTEST AGAINST!!!
CARNIVAL IN JUNE!!!!!!!!!!.
It would appear that some of the protesters were under the influence!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is not a one-sided story. There are two sides to this story. What about the priest’s credibility? Do you know the entire story and what the woman said, how it happened, and what the woman said, how it happened and what took place, if it is in fact true? Do you know what influence she is under? And you are under the influence of Satan, under his yoke because you do not know anything about this story yet you blame the priest. Where is your intelligence? Do you have any?
How old is she today? So we can deduce when it happened and if consent is/can be used in defense or against him.
I know reggie very well back at SMA and I am in no position to say yes he did nor not. Pt is the guy is male /westindian and priest what better camoflage to do good and evil mix in one.
We have many priest who fornicated with the church sisters then quit to get married to them.
there are those who came out late after having taken the vow of charcity only to realize NO man can be a Tarzan for long. A tarzan is a man without woman. we have ejs of Priest who became politicians,lawyers , journalist after they had excessive sex undercover with parishoners children wives etc add urs.You know one so do i so does james and jack, paul and mark even stephanie ,margaret and sandra.
The solution to all these sexual crimes and the incompartible sex know as “BUG HER” Layman ,priest lawyer Journalist, politician welder, farmer dentist, plummer Ambassador, high commishoner is to get married even when they are their wives still defend them as they do not want to be labelled as not sweet and being a Hilary C
not doing their home work.
But the priest should be allowed to get married.This is only so in the catholic church.
Fr Lafleur is very kind. I wont accuse him,I know Reggie Lafleur very well this is hard to believe. After 19 years you accuse him. Reginald Lafleur is an honest priest thump me dont if you wish I am a born Dominican. ANN SHILLINGFORD
You make a good character witness and I’m sure your heart is hurting but that does not mean that father Lafleur is innocent, or guilty for that matter of the wrongdoing he is accused of.Only a thorough investigation and subsequent hearing will establish that.
Well you do not know him very well. Yes he is a very pleasant person. You do not know every thing. Base on what I know of him, I can not say it is not true . But I will not say it is impossible. The bishop did the write thing. That will help him to thing. god business is not a joke.I say to the bishop , be strong in the lord and in the power of his mitt .your discegtion may not always be popular to men. Know one say the priest is not down to earth as we would say.and pleasant person. My friend if that is true it is wrong .20, 30, 5, 2, 1 year it is wrong .
What does kind mean? One can be KIND or QUIET and still be an ABUSER. I know. NO, I was not abused.
Hi Ann Shillingford:
I am with you. I stand by Father Lafelur. Let us get more genuine practicing Catholics to do likewise. God wants this of us. There are too many sinners and hypocrites which the world is filled of, out there who do not look at themselves and how do they worship and serve God yet they will stand in judgment against him. So I have much to say to them and about their attitude since they are by far no saints. This is my weapon against them. It is for this reason why I am passionate about standing up for him, thanks be to God. God bless you!
if this is hard to believe, you should meet those men who sleep with their daughters and those men who sleeps with underage girls. we never truly know someone. not saying he did it, but to say you wont accuse him. well you wont have to accuse him unless he did something to you. The most you can say, is that I know him , and he never did that to me. You would be amaze at what people do behind close doors.
You guys are acting as if we are living in a crime free world. How many times are we going to say that this crime does not fit this person. You think is only those vagabonds on the street that commit crime?
That’s exactly what happens in our society. People do wrong and we turn a blind eye. Our leaders have to be held accountable for their actions, whether we support them or not. I am not accusing the priest of wrongdoing its an allegation, but let the authorities deal with it.
Before you judge anyone as Fr. Lafleur, you must first find out the truth, if this story did in fact take place. You have come to a conclusion without knowing the truth. This is my contention with people as you. Pray to God for his guidance and to reveal to you if this story is true. At this point, God knows better than you do.
The SNAP organising they poke their noise in something they don’t have facts about. I am ashamed of them.
If anyone knows about “noise” it is grandbayrian. Do you have the facts that enable you to pronounce an instant judgement?
Exactly! Some of us are not gullible and stupid to swallow that story and without hearing the entire story and who that woman is.
The lives of this so called SNAP are an abomination to the Lord. Do you know the meaning of the word snap? This is it: “break with sharp noise; do something with sharp noise; break under pressure; lose control of emotions; speak angrily.”
Regard them as such and nothing more. As God knows, their work and motives are merely temporary. They will not last. What is of God will last. What is not of God will not last whether it appears that they have organized themselves a few years. Those years are nothing in the sight of God. Woe to those who support them in any way. They have proved that they are not on the side of morality and obviously not on the side of God. They and their followers are no good examples to the world in general. They are an ill-wind that blows nobody any good.
Who are they to stand in judgment? They are not operating in anyone’s favor. The money they receive from others is to live off the avails of their hard-earned dollars. People who support them and their immoral cause are stupid.
God has already judged them. He is patient, waiting when they close their eyes for their final judgment to begin. You know where this will lead to.
we are ashamed of you guys.
Where is the police in all of this. Sexual abuse/assault is a crime. Is this matter being investigated by the police service?
The girl ever tell all you want police involved in her business? Let her make her report, get her little fame, hopefully he will not continue to be priest and she more than likely will get a compensation….
Everybody blowing steaming , the so called accuser just said something and lay low and leave all of us to just talk. Really and truly if the priest did hurt her you don’t believe the girl would come out and ensure is removed by coming more public. think of it.
You are so correct! Those are the gullible ones. They will believe anything. Any wind that blows they will try to catch it and to follow it. They have projected their ignorance. So much for them.
What Grandbay people need to ask is whether there are any other victims. Granbday is leading the nation in child abuse. Most teens who runaway with older men find their way to Grandbay, why? Tell these Granbdya parishioners to check their back yards and go protect their daughters and tell their sons stop harboring runaway teens.
I am not surprise they protecting an alleged perpetrator.
You need to get your facts together about grandbayrians keeping it real.
DNO, see what you have published. Isn’t it distasteful and obsecene. Can any of the statements about moral decadence be substantiated? Yet you published it. It is not to say that I support what transpired in Grand Bay or do not believe that Grand bay like every other communityin Dominica has its own social and moral values to deal with. As a Catholic, I abhor what any incident of misbehaviour by our men of the cloth. Similar what happened at Grand Bay in big daylight challenge to the Bishop has to be condemned. I have already commented elsewher in this blog. But please DNO, some things are simply too derogatory of our peopel or distasteful to allow to pass for publication whilst some comments are withheld from being published on th egrounds of being xxxxxxxxx. By all means screen all comments that are submitted but do not ocmpromise your good editorial policy in anyway whatsoever.
You’re an idiot.
Bram Bram
Here is someone who also has nothing to say. That comment and type of it should not even be allowed on this Website for it teaches nothing.
But you want your gabbage to be printed.
Now SHAP is speaking from lots of experience.I hope those holding their placards dont have juveniles around predators that they defendbecause that would be a green light for the predator
What experience and what type? You tell us. We know better than you do. It is not a godly experience. Let them deceive you because you do not utilize your common sense and good judgment, if you have any.
There you go again Justice and truth, you always ready to condemn, to knock others when you disagree with your views. Nothing you say make sense. Heavens, judging from your comments both past and present, you don’t seem to have any common sense yourself.
IKR…..Where did SNAP come from anyways? I thought that story was kind of loosing substance.
Yes John Paul, SNAP is speaking from experience. Many of it members are victims as young children. They have been at the forefront of advocating for compensation for victims, and calling on the church to punish, and weed out these child molesters, rapists, sex-maniacs, to name a few. No decent human being will ignore these criminal acts against innocent people. Should we applaud those that preach, and quote the bible, while defending an accused priest no matter what? The fact is, these sexual acts were performed for many years without control by the authorities, by men with their shirt collars turned to the back of their necks and a bible in one hand. How sickening when they call the Lord’s name in vain. Thankfully, there are more organizations world wide like SNAP. They will not rest until justice prevails.
Dr. Haynes: I could not agree more with these comments.
There is a need for an organization like SNAPS. The abuse has gone on too long with far too many people being violated, especially young boys. The church authorities in question cannot be trusted to clean up their own act regardless of the announcements they make and the press releases they put out. They will do what they think is in their best interest and in this their judgment is terribly warped. Some have been hushed into silence by pay-offs. I expect there is a certain ammount of blackmail especially at the higher levels of the church.
It is time to fight back. SNAPS are playing a big role in this. I want to thank you for your contribution. Please continue to speak out.
It is very grievous to see Roman Catholic people speaking in defence of priests guilty of sexual wrong doing and the bishops who refuse to execute proper discipline. It is especially bad when a child has been violated.
The issue does not sseem to be if the man is innocent or guilty. That I could undedrstand. All that seems to matter is the fact that a priest has been accused and Catholic people come running to his defence.
As a psychologist you understand that these people are insecure. Their hope for heaven is based upon an institution called the Roman Catholic Church. It is all they have for eternity. When it falters so does their sense of spiritual well being. The greater their faith in the Roman system is and the more insecure and lonely they are the more it becomes necessary for them to defend the church.
I realize not all Catholics defend the accused. Many feel betrayed. Some suffer in silence. Others leave the church.
As an ordained minister I want to be the first to say that I am not above the law. My denomination is not above the law. It is our official church teaching that God has delegated to the civil authorities the responsibility to make and enforce laws that will give us a peaceful and orderly society according to Romans 13:1-7. I must remember that Romans 13:4 tells me the police officer is also a minister (servant) of God with a job to do which includes arresting me if necessary.
In my denomination the General Constitution will be worded differently from country to country but the principles will compare favorably.
If a pastor is accused of sexual misconduct an investigation will be made. Hearsay and gossip are not accepted. Credibility is evaluated. Evidence is examined.
If he confesses or is found guilty he will be be defrocked. He will NOT be transferred to another church. Depending on the serious of the offence he may be placed in a recovery program and eventually restored or he may be expelled for life.
If the offence did not break the law and is not a crime it will ideally be contained. This means it will be treated within the church family. The bishop can announced what he feels comfortable sharing but he knows some things must be kept confidential. We hope people will respect his professionalism.
However if the law has been broken and a crime was committed this is a civil matter. The public support the legal system and they have a right to know it is working to keep the community safe. No information should be kept ftom the people.
The victim does not need permission from the bishop or any church authority to report it to the police. He or she should be encouraged to do so.
If a child has been assaulted the parents should report it to the police as soon as they are informed and are relatively sure of the story. They do not need permission from the bishop or any other church authority to do this. Nobody should be given an opportunity of talking them out of going to the authorities. They are the legal guardians of that child. It is their responsibility to report any allegation of sexual abuse to the police. They must not accuse the child of making the story up.
Any bishop who is aware of a child being molested by a priest under his watch should report it to the police immediately and fully support a police investigation. Not to do so makes him a party to the crime. In my country if ANY adult knows that a child has been – or is being – assulted and fails to report it to the police that person has committed a serious criminal offence.
The public has a right to know such cases have been dealt with in a civil court. The people should know the outcome of the trial. If the public are not getting answers they should demand answers. Let them get on the case and ride it until they know justice has been done!
Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.
Allah says in the Holy Qur’an 3:64
قُلْ يَا أَهْلَ الْكِتَابِ تَعَالَوْا إِلَىٰ كَلِمَةٍ سَوَاءٍ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ أَلَّا نَعْبُدَ إِلَّا اللَّهَ وَلَا نُشْرِكَ بِهِ شَيْئًا وَلَا يَتَّخِذَ بَعْضُنَا بَعْضًا أَرْبَابًا مِّن دُونِ اللَّهِ فَإِن تَوَلَّوْا فَقُولُوا اشْهَدُوا بِأَنَّا مُسْلِمُونَ
Say (O Muhammad SAW): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allah. Then, if they turn away, say: “Bear witness that we are Muslims.”
As Muslims, we invite the Christians and other respective people of different beliefs and ideologies for dialogue. For 500 years our forefathers as well as ourselves were either forced or raised in our respective religions without questioning its doctrines and principles. Why is it we are afraid to question what we are taught about Allah/God as this is critical for our salvation? Isn’t it the same creator who has given us an intellect? Once again we invite the people to Islam, open your minds and inquire.
Now about this article. It is understood that people love their priest but O people of Dominica and particularly the protesters of Grandbay, do not let emotions blind you from the issues as it relates to the sexual exploitation of young girls. Kindly allow this priest to step down so that a thorough investigation takes place. We must not shield wrong doing in the name of “love.” If our people truly believe in love, justice is a very powerful component of love. This victim if this was really done to her needs your justice, mercy and compassion. They need to feel protected in their respective societies. When people protest to protect a man who allegedly sexually exploited a teenage girl, what message are we sending to the world? Do you people have any common sense?
In short, it is a sensitive issue for many people who were touched however, we must let go of emotions and let logic, reason and evidence come into play. Pray to the Most High to direct your actions and your heart to do and say the right things. Thanks.
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dat sounding too much like law and order (svu) sorry dnt buy her story….
SNAP should have the priest do a lie detector test.
The Bishop will soon ask for a transfer.
SNAP, believe me…no way you gonna win Grand Bay!!!
Their conclusions are unassailable.The Bishop of Roseau must be guided by Canon Law and all the rules and principles laid down by the Church in dealing with such allegations of sexual misconduct by the clergy and the precedents drawn from similar cases in other Roman Catholic jurisdictions.It is a sign of great weakness to allow oneself to be bulldozed by constituents with narrow parochial concerns.The Rule of Law must be adhered to by all citizens of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
I dont like responding to anonymous comments but you made some important points. The many priests & nuns that abused the many children throughot the ages defied Cannon as well as Common Law. Rightly, the church is not above the State. The bishop of Dca is a citizen of the state first. His relationship to the church is his business. He as a citizens must render allegiance to country and its laws. Like all of us, he has the choice to fear, honor, respect, love God, but he also has a duty to control his flock which means, living under the laws of Dca. The church has its phylosophy, its principles, and we all respect that but, they have to realize the power of the state. lt has precedent.
Amen indeed!!!
The problem of accusations of this nature against clergy is not limited to Dominica so these are general comments. It should be understood that Bishop Malzaire is closer to the situation than his critics and may know particulars of the case they do not know. In all probability he is not yet finished dealing with it so it is best not to jump to conclusuions. I don`t know what the statue of limitations are but if whatever is alledged to have taken place was a criminal act it should have been reported to the police. Experience tells us that to report such behaviour only to church authorities is not enough. Far too often they will cover it up and simply move the priest to another parish. For members of the parish to cover for a priest (any priest – anywhere) is wrong. An investigation should be done although this becomes difficult if too much times has passed. If he is found guilty he should be removed from ministry at least until he has shown true repentance and received the help he needs. Beyond that the church has a moral responsibility to provide professional counseling and follow-uo care for the victim. This should be a priority. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.
good..help our young ones coming up. they r the leaders of tomorrow. did not know of this group..wise idea.
That is one thing I don’t like about that church (of which I am a member). They want to be judge and jury for their own clergy. It should be the police to investigate whether the lady’s allegation are true or false an decide whether there is a case for prosecution in a normal court. The catholic church not much better than the muslims with their sharia.
In all the years only 1 accuser, Yes it should be investigated of course but accused doesnt mean guilty!
Well SNAP I remember reading and hearing about “ABUSE”; not “SEXUAL ABUSE”!!
amen
Amen.
***A FOOLISH INVESTIGATION***
“after a woman accused him of sexually abusing her 19 years ago. However, after a meeting between Bishop Malzaire and Grand Bay church leaders, it was agreed that he would return to the parish before the end of the month”.
……………..
This alone does not make any sense. If he is going to be coming back at te end of the month then what was the NEED to put him on administrative leave.
I thought this was to find out if there was some sexual misconduct!!
What if he did do what he is being accused of???
So how can you say that he will be back in one month without even knowing where the so called investigation would lead to.
I suppose even if the accusation had any merit you all are basically saying he will be back in one month no matter what!!
Total foooooolishness!!!
-Thanks
I agree with that 100% Was expressing this same thought to my colleagues.
That means that the so called
investigation is a sham!
you hit the nail on the head in da if is not us or at home that it hit boy it ok bull. wrong is wrong investigate if found guilty time for crime so I see it
thank you Trueman. foolishness
What if he did not do what she said? You are the one who is foolish for you have not heard if this is really true. You are not God. God is the judge.
Justice, there you go again trying to provoke, condemn, and insult. Actually, Your venom seems to be weakening with each passing comment. No one said they are/were God. Frankly Justice, l think you should go back to the drawing board and realize that you are not qualified to preach God’s word. Your psychological disorders are evident, and seem to be getting worse. l wonder if you realize that.