CATHOLIC MEDIA COALITION
1216 MILL ROAD
WOODSTOCK, VA 22664
http://www.catholicmediacoalition.org/
OPEN LETTER TO BISHOP WILLIAM PATRICK CALLAHAN,
BISHOP OF LA CROSSE, WISCONSIN
September 15, 2020
Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows
Your Excellency:
I am an orthodox Catholic who has spent my entire adult life fighting for babies waiting to be born: sidewalk counseling outside abortion facilities, offering a shelter home for moms in crisis, even going to jail several times for rescue attempts. As President of the Catholic Media Coalition, I speak for many likeminded Catholics who deplore the attacks on Holy Mother Church and those who defend her. Many of our members have watched and listened to the edifying sermons by Fr. James Altman and remarked on what a blessing he must be to his bishop for speaking the truth with clarity and charity about the moral obligation of Catholics, particularly our shepherds, to defend intrinsic moral issues.
So I was mystified by your public statement rebuking and threatening Fr. Altman for his impassioned defense of the faith as he warned Catholics not to endanger their souls by embracing the Democrat Party of death and perversion. Your actions brought to mind Dietrich von Hildebrand's statement in The Devastated Vineyard:
...it is most especially infuriating when certain bishops, who themselves show this lethargy toward heretics, assume a rigorously authoritarian attitude toward those believers who are fighting for orthodoxy, and who are thus doing what the bishops ought to be doing themselves....The drivel of the heretics, both priests and laymen, is tolerated....But they want to silence the faithful believers who take up the cause of orthodoxy, the very people who should, by all rights, be the joy of the bishops' hearts, their consolation, a source of strength for overcoming their own lethargy. Instead, these people are regarded as disturbers of the peace. And should it happen that they get carried away in their zeal and express themselves in a tactless or exaggerated manner, they are even suspended. This clearly shows the cowardice which is hidden behind the bishops' failure to use their authority.
Sadly, Your Excellency, your statement could have been the source spurring von Hildebrand's lament. I reread your statement several times and, frankly, was appalled:
- First, by your releasing a public statement while claiming to follow the biblical admonition to go to your brother privately. Your actions contradicted your words.
- Second, by your acknowledging the "undeniable truth" of Fr. Altman's message while ultimately dismissing it. He defended fundamental, non-negotiable Church doctrines while you, on the other hand, focused on his tone!
- Third, by your threatening canonical penalties for his "delivery and tone," threats based, not on canon law, but your personal opinion. I can only imagine what you think of the tone of Jesus Himself calling the entire group of pharisees and sadducees "blind guides...whited sepulchers filled with dead men's bones...filled with evil and iniquity!" (Matthew 25) Was Jesus “divisive, uncharitable, and lacking in virtue?”
- Fourth, by calling his "generalization and condemnation of entire groups of people...completely inappropriate and not in keeping with our values of the life of virtue." That is simply nonsense! The Church has always banned Catholics from joining the Masons since their beliefs are incompatible with Church doctrine. At one time it brought a penalty of excommunication. Does it still? And then there are those "entire groups of people" who commit aborticide or secure or aid in the procurement of abortion who are automatically excommunicated. I wonder -- would you have any problem with the “generalization and condemnation” of those who join the KKK, ISIS, or the Satanic Temple? The Democrats officially embrace diabolical evil in their party platform. Catholics can't do that without endangering their souls! It is charitable and a spiritual work of mercy to warn them and exhort them to repentance.
Your Excellency, I wonder how much the pressure from "progressives" has influenced your actions, which brings me once again to von Hildebrand's description of the "lethargy of the guardians:"
For they [the bishops] have nothing to fear from the orthodox: the orthodox do not control the mass media or the press; they are not the representatives of public opinion. And because of their submission to ecclesiastical authority, the fighters for orthodoxy will never be as aggressive as the so-called progressives. If they are reprimanded or disciplined, their bishops run no risk of being attacked by the liberal press and being defamed as reactionary.
Fr. Altman deserves your praise, not threats to see "the error of his ways and...take steps to correct his behavior and heal the wound he has inflicted on the Body of Christ." Your Excellency, it is not Fr. Altman who has inflicted a "wound" on the Body of Christ, but you. We have had half a century of dialogue with Catholics, especially Catholic politicians, who scandalize the faithful by promoting child killing, sexual immorality, perversion, and other intrinsic evils. To allow, and even promote confusion, is a grievous wound indeed; and that is what you have done!
Tens of thousands of Catholics are anxiously and prayerfully watching this situation. We beg you to withdraw all threats from Fr. Altman. Restore permission for him to live-stream Masses including his excellent CATHOLIC sermons. He blows the trumpet to warn those hastening to destruction. If you silence his voice, you take your seat with the cowardly bench of English bishops who chose the apostasy of Henry VIII over the truths of the faith. They remained silent as their one faithful brother, Bishop John Fisher, was condemned and beheaded. Please spare the flock the painful scandal of watching you imitate them.
I would appreciate the courtesy of a response to this letter letting the faithful know the penalties, if any, you plan to levy on Fr. Altman. He has canonical rights as a pastor and many of us will gladly support those rights with both our prayers and our pocketbooks! I'm sure many of the tens of thousands of faithful Catholics signing the LifeSiteNews petition in support of Fr. Altman will happily contribute to his defense.
We will also be praying for you, Your Excellency that you do not inflict a further wound on the Church. It would be a scandal of massive proportions to persecute a faithful son for speaking the truth in his zeal to save souls. I hope saving souls is your goal as well. Sometimes that requires boldly speaking the hard truth!
Sincerely in Christ,
Mary Ann Kreitzer
President, Catholic Media Coalition
Co-Signers (More signatories will be added as they are received.):
James Fritz, Defenders of the Faith, Inc., Berkeley Springs, WV http://www.thedefender.org/contact.shtml
Mary Boud, Catholic Allies in Truth, http://www.alliesintruth.org/
Janet Baker, Restore D.C. Catholicism, http://restore-dc-catholicism.blogspot.com/
Georgene M Sorenson, Romans in the Desert
David Lee, Romans in the Desert
Linda Lee, Romans in the Desert
Susan Matthiesen, The Orlando Truth, Orlando, FL
Catherine Van Lone Taylor, Catholic Media Coalition, Tucson, AZ
Alysson Smith, Catholic Media Coalition, Los Angeles, CA
Alice Grayson, Veil of Innocence, https://veilofinnocence.org/
Darden Brock, Les Femmes, the Women of Truth, Front Royal, VA
Daniel Graham, author Lex Orandi, Fairfax, VA
Judith Graham, Fairfax, VA
John-Henry Westen, LifeSiteNews
Jack Ames, Defend Life, Baltimore, MD
Michael Arata
Greg Strobel
David J. Sabo
Robert J. Muise, American Freedom Law Center
Stephen and Rose Filipi
Finola Glassmoyer
Don Volz, New Braunfels, TX
Judy Appelhanz
Mary L Goumillout Concord, NH
Joel Bautista of Glendale
Mr and Mrs Eli and Shiela Nicart and children
Barbara Creager
Peggy Morris Severna Park, MD
Thomas Kolberg, Ordinary Sinner
Rosemary Costa Sunset Beach, NC
Leonard Attard
Rudnei Wittmann, PhD, Saint-Jerome, QC - Canada
Lucia Tirone, Paterson, New Jersey
Donna M. Bungo St. Joseph Parish Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Andrew Nelson, ND
Connie Hays. Kingwood TX
Elizabeth Poel, VA
Rod Hamar
Thomas & Karyn Burt
Bronwyn Curtis
Maureen Stephens, Woodstock Il
Ed Michael
Mary Ann Gurliaccio,Virginia
Bev Beselaere
David and Nichole Dillon, Nampa, Idaho
Larry Madoski - Huntington Beach, CA
Diane McNair, Huntington Beach, CA
Ron Davis San Antonio, Texas
Chris Remmert North Carolina
Betty Sarratt Dallas, Texas
Mary Riley, Michigan
Tram Duong, Leavenworth WA
Jim and Pat Althoff Phoenix, MD
Brenda Voss
Sandra Paulley, Houston, Texas
Melissa Belcher, South Africa
Dianne La Barre, New York
Sunita Kottoor, Peoria, IL
Rachel Buckley
Loretta Costello
Mike Taraborelli, Cranston, R.I.
Please add my name to the list of signatories. You are absolutely correct.
ReplyDeleteGreg Strobel
Dear Bishop William Patrick Callahan,
ReplyDeleteYour Excellency:
If this letter from Mary Ann Kreitzer, President, Catholic Media Coalition doesn't sink in for you to STAND BEHIND and SUPPORT your most faithful priest Fr. James Altman, then I'm inclined to believe your soul is in great danger. I pray the Holy Spirit will enlighten you so you do what is righteous. Sincerely, in Christ, David J. Sabo
AMEN!
DeleteGod bless you for this letter!
DeletePlease add my name, Carrie Jones of Oxford, to the list of signatories.
With all my heart I agree with everything you have written in this letter to Fr Altman's bishop.
What a powerful, excellent and beautiful letter. Please add our names, Jim and Colleen Buechler, to your letter. Thank you very much.
DeleteExtra note: Jim and Colleen Buechler, Jasper, Indiana
DeletePlease add my name to this list as well. I support Fr. Altman 100%
ReplyDeleteI'll gladly add your name, Unknow, but you'll have to send it.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list. Robert J. Muise, American Freedom Law Center.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name, and thank-you, Mrs. Dr. Nancy Allen
ReplyDeleteI would be honored to add my name to the list. God has, through Fr. Altman, moved many souls to action! Praise His Holy Name! Carol J. Cimarossa
ReplyDeletePowerful message...thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteQuébec Canada
Thank you Mary Ann! You said it so well! Please add our names: Ben and Debbie Farias, Nacogdoches, TX.
ReplyDeleteI wholeheartedly stand with Father Altman! He is a courageous and true Shepherd not afraid to speak the truth in face of persecution. Please add my name to this list. Sharon Poulette, Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Biloxi, MS.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list. I totally support Fr Altman. He speaks Truth which pierces the heart. Darlene Francis
ReplyDeleteExcellent letter, Mary Ann! You nailed it! Father Altman is one of my heroes. Thank you for penning this letter! Please add my name to the letter. Bonnie Borel-Donohue
ReplyDeleteI totally support Fr Altman! Thank you for this well articulated letter. Please add my name. Lillie Acosta Augusta, Ga
ReplyDeletePlease add my name in support of this important feedback to one of our shepherds, who can hopefully listen to and benefit from experiencing "the smell of his flock" to paraphrase our Holy Father. Ken Reeb, MD. (A Wisconsin native who studied in La Crosse many years ago.) A pro-life parishioner at St Thomas More Church in Chapel Hill, NC.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastic letter, you said everything that we were all thinking and wanting to say. May God bless your words. I hope the bishop repents or steps down for his cowardly words and actions. Shirley and Glenn Godfrey whispering pines,n.c. Please add us too.
ReplyDeleteWe support Father Altman! Please add our names Joey & Alexandrina Lozano Henderson, NV
ReplyDeleteStephen Matthew Schneider, Holly Springs, NC
ReplyDeletePlease add my name!
ReplyDeleteAdd my name. Chriss Rainey
ReplyDeleteWell written letter. Please add my name to this letter to the archbishop. Thank you. Robert Ference, Wilmington, NC 28451
ReplyDeleteDear Mary Ann,
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to your wonderful letter to Bishop Callahan. I cheered ever so loudly here in Erie, Pa!
Thank you,
Julie Michalski
I wholeheartedly support Father Altman . His homilies inspire and encourage my belief in our true Catholic Faith . I have personally also contacted His Eminence to express my request that he commend instead of chastise this brave priest.
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray for Father Altman and also that his Bishop will support him.
Great letter Mary Ann. Forceful but respectful. I love this man, Fr. Altman, and could listen to him all day. His Bishop is sinning in trying to suppress the truth of the Catholic Churchj of Jesus Christ and he may pay dearly for it at the end, but when you are a coward, well, your a coward. Please add my name and my wife as well.
ReplyDeleteBill and Lucy Raley Carleton Place, Ontario, Canada.
Thanks for what you do and God Bless.
Bill Raley
Please add Susan Schurdak. Also in the second bullet point, the comma after ”other” and before “hand” needs to go after hand. Truly an excellent letter!
ReplyDeleteWell done faithful servant of Christ. We must all rise up and defend our faith! Fr. Altman is a light for this darkness we are living in. Please add Todd and Mary (EMHC coordinator)Golder, St. Mary Church, Escondido, CA
ReplyDeletePlease add my name as well, so well written!
ReplyDeleteRenee M. Oakes, BA, FCP
Thank you Mary Ann for support of Father Altmanwhat a courageousPriest for saying what needs to be said. My daughther is a Catholic medical doctor on the Catholic Medical Association board and practices and promotess Catholic teachings. I really enjoy Father Altman sermons. We need more Priests like him.l Add my name and my
ReplyDeleteMy husband, Ken to your wonderful letter to Bishop Callahan he is out of line. Bonnie and Ken Kuntz
Dear Bishop Callahan,
ReplyDeleteI have been following Fr. Altman throughout the so-called pandemic. His purity of heart, his compassion for his flock, his orthodox love of the Church and the Blessed Mother, etc., all have kept me grounded during these troubled times. We are well aware of the moral bankruptcy of many members of the hierarchy. Why don't they get silenced? Why are you silencing a faithful priest who is merely telling the Truth? Jesus' "tone" wasn't always "nice," He became angry when it was necessary, calling them snakes and vipers. I guess Jesus was using the wrong tone.
We are angry. Fr. Altman is angry, because, as he points out, the Church seems to be doing NOTHING about correcting the moral issues so rampant in the Church. He is angry because too many wimpy bishops have just caved in to governors and mayors and closed the churches - just when we need God the most. He is angry because some high-ranking bishops are stupidly praising marxist-socialist-communist groups like BLM. The world has gone crazy; the Church, too? Sin does not exist for many pastors nowadays - at least I am not hearing it, except from priests like Fr. Altman.
Fr. Altman repeatedly praised you; we praised you, too, for your apparent support of him. You let him down.
Dear Bishop, follow your informed conscience. Stand up and be counted. Do not cave in to heretics like James Martin and his filthy ilk. Jesus accepted all sinners, but He told them to repent and sin no more. Martin celebrates their sin and, instead of helping them to live as faithful Christians, he wants to change the Church instead! Have we sunk so low? Why aren't bishops silencing him?
We, especially those of us who live in other states, need Fr. Altman to feed our thirsty souls. We want to hear the Truth and receive the spiritual guidance that he so perfectly gives. Do not punish him. Praise him.
Angela Del Casale
NJ
Father Altman spoke truth. Thank God some are standing up for the most innocent and the most vulnerable. It gave many faith that some in our church can stand up and speak truth
ReplyDeleteDear Ms Kreitzer,
ReplyDeleteI must commend you on writing such a powerful and truthful letter. I would be honored if you would add my name to the letter. “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Indeed Father Altman defies the meaning of Mr Burk's quote by being a Godly man that speaks the truth to all us that hear him. He must be allowed to continue doing his work.
Respectfully
Jesus Perez
Traditional Catholic
Denver, Colorado
I tried to find a contact email for Bishop Callahan online to send my own letter supporting Fr Altman, but could not. (Perhaps the Bishop doesn't wish to be contacted.) Thank you Mary Ann for expressing all that I wanted to say in an open letter. Add my name and my husband's to the list. It's time faithful Catholics speak loudly and persistently until the bishops can hear us over the megaphones of the godless mass media and so called Catholic politians.
ReplyDeletePaul and Gloria St. Amant
Lithia, Florida
Excellent letter! I do hope & pray that Bishop Callahan realizes that Fr Altman did not cause scandal; he only speaks the Truth, which is too hard for some Bishops to swallow.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name, Barbara Creager, to your open letter to Bishop Callahan. I’m in full support of Fr Altman and was surprised by Bishop Callahan’s response. Your letter details the issues perfectly. Fr Altman’s live-streaming should be restored as there is a great hunger for the truth. Many Catholic Churches are still severely restricted in #’s of attendees, hours of operation and sacraments available to the faithful. We need more courageous priests and bishops like Fr Altman.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this excellent letter. It says everything that my heart longs to say. Pls include our names: Mr and Mrs Eli and Shiela Nicart and children.
ReplyDeletePlease add myname Esperanza Romero Our Lady of Perpetual Help McAllen, texas
ReplyDeleteFather Altman is a true shepherd. We need him. He is so brave. We need to imitate him and become bold everywhere we go.
Excellent letter! I hope & pray that Bishop Callahan realizes that Fr.Altman caused no scandal. He only speaks the Truth, which may be too hard for some Bishops to swallow.
ReplyDeletePlease add June Vendetti to the petition. Thank you
Please add my name to your list. Thank you
ReplyDeleteLetitia Makowski
Please add Christine Yegan. Your letter was a masterpiece.
ReplyDeletePlease add JoAnn Kennedy.
ReplyDeleteYour letter is amazing and a real gift to the bishop. I pray he will do what is right and just.
Dear Susan,
ReplyDeleteFather Altman was the only light that kept me going during the lock down here in Toronto, Canada. While the clergy here bowed in submission to the government and health officials, it was Father Altman that gave me hope. His Homilies reminded me of St. John the Baptist and the Old Testament Prophets. I continue to listen to his every word from every Homily that becomes available....even now....because I do believe the worst is yet to come.
When I learned that the Bishop has reprimanded Father Altman so unjustly, I am sorry for myself...as I will no longer have anyone else to edify me during these trying times. However, I feel more sorry for the Bishop. He will have to answer to the Lord for this decision...for censoring a Priest who is doing what the Lord wants done...but few (like Father Mark Goring and Father Roger Altier and more) are doing. These Priests are risking all to go feed the flock, instead of hiding behind the government rules.
Please add my name to your letter. I will send this to others and ask them to do the same.
May God bless you and your family for your witness to Christ.
Denise Gracias
I support Father Altman for speaking the truth and proudly add my name to the list defending him! It’s sad that Bishops (decibels of the apostles) are afraid to speak the truth and condemn the evils of our day! Gerald Kneeshaw
ReplyDeleteExcellent letter! You covered the most salient points with grace and respect. Please add my name Barbara Spencer, Mexico. Thank God for Fr. Altman.
ReplyDeleteAnd mine. Joel Bautista of Glendale. Bishops are human and sinners just like us.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name: Debra Thomas, Vacaville, Ca.
ReplyDeleteExcellent letter expressing all of our views on this matter! Please add my name...Mary L Goumillout
ReplyDeleteConcord, NH
grammielu8@gmail.com
A great letter! Thank you for laying bare the hard truth most bishops do not want to hear. I pray your requests are heard, acknowledged and granted without delay. God Bless you and the work that you do.
ReplyDeleteChrist faced death on a cross after saying what others found unpopular. Bishop Callahan, what are you afraid of? Know that the courage of Christ is so very liberating.
ReplyDeleteFrancis Nevins, Hudson, FL
Marcela Uribe Austin, TX
ReplyDeleteThank you 🙏🏻!!
Excellent letter! Please add my name
ReplyDeleteKathleen O'Brien, Sierra Vista, Arizona
Excellent letter! Please add my name. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteKathleen O'Brien
Please add my name: Don Volz, New Braunfels, TX
ReplyDeleteFinola Glassmoyer
ReplyDeletePlease add my name. Thank you for your letter.
Please add my name, MaryLou Ortiz. Fr. Altman speaks like a true father who loves his sheep and wants to lead them to their ultimate goal, Heaven! We are tired of weak and timid Shepherds. Thank you Fr. Altman for being a faithful Shepherd!
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to your letter. Fr. James Altman is a courageous shepherd concerned with the salvation of souls. Thank God for him. I pray for him daily.
ReplyDeleteGinny Bailey, Las Cruces, NM
Please add my name, and thank-you, Attila Revesz, Phoenix, AZ
ReplyDeleteThank you for your excellent letter in support of Fr. Altman. I pray the Bishop finds the courage to follow the path Fr. Altman has opened up. We stand for Jesus and the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church and need more outspoken leaders to proclaim the Truth. Please add my name.
ReplyDeleteDenise Blase
Great letter. And great quotes. this is one of the great blessings COVID brought. We now love and know Fr James Altman. I love a great preacher. He says it how it is and he is teaching us. We want to be taught. He brings a JOY to my heart.
ReplyDeleteAdd my name, Diane Keck, my Mother and Father ... Stephen and Rose Filipi
Great letter. And great quotes. this is one of the great blessings COVID brought. We now love and know Fr James Altman. I love a great preacher. He says it how it is and he is teaching us. We want to be taught. He brings a JOY to my heart.
ReplyDeleteAdd my name, Diane Keck, my Mother and Father ... Stephen and Rose Filipi
We support Father Altman 100% and hope his Bishop has a change of heart ❤️ as so many souls are being touched and being empowered with Father Altman’s preaching and teachings to go forth and spread the Message of Christ. Only in eternity will we see the great impact he has has had on the souls brought to salvation. As Our Blessed Mother has asked us to pray for strength of faith and trust in the unconditional love of the Father. This is our prayer for the Bishop and for the entire body of Christ. To God be the glory.
ReplyDeleteRespectfully,
Joseph & Margaret Porto
Kingsville, ON
Canada
Yeehaw! Thank you for such a wonderful letter. Please add my name: Sidonie Reynolds, Dallas, Tx
ReplyDeleteYeehaw! Incredible letter. Thank you from all of us members of the Holy, Catholic Church. Sidonie Reynolds, Dallas, Tx
ReplyDeleteDear Bishop Callahan, Christ be with you.
ReplyDeleteMy wife, Sheila, and I have a novena in-process for your Excellency! We are praying for you to be wholly enveloped in the theological virtue of ‘hope,’ and her two daughters of anger and courage! (St. Augustine)
We are including one of the better known Presidential quotes for your edification:
President Teddy Roosevelt
April 23, 1910
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."
You, Bishop Callahan, are the Man in the Arena! Please, we beg you not to allow ‘critics’ to interfere with your pastoral support for Fr. Altman, his devotion to the Church, and the St. James the Less parish.
Viva Cristo Rey, Jim
Thank you for this wonderful effort! Father Altman has inspired many Catholics and non-Catholics alike. (We actually first learned of him from our Baptist friend!)
ReplyDeletePlease add our names: Dennis Deering and Michele Deering, PhD, Anchorage, AK
Thank you for writing this wonderful letter to express how we need faithful shepherds like Fr Altman, especially now! The enemy is trying his best to cause faithful Catholics to be without spiritual nourishment. Please return Fr Altman the sharing of his homilies online for the thousands of us that have devoured every word of Truth!
ReplyDeleteJudy Appelhanz
So Blessed to hear a joyful righteous Priest speak the truth. It seems few are willing to speak out
ReplyDeleteAs they are always stepped on and silenced by the bishops. God bless you father. Just a plain old
God loving Catholic. Seems to be fewer around and this part of the reason. Ken Schacht
So Blessed to hear a joyful righteous Priest speak the truth. It seems few are willing to speak out
ReplyDeleteAs they are always stepped on and silenced by the bishops. God bless you father. Just a plain old
God loving Catholic. Seems to be fewer around and this part of the reason. Ken Schacht
Please add my name to the letter. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMartin Villa
Riverside, California
My name is Bernadette Di Madonna and I approve this message! Please add my name to the list of signatories!
ReplyDeletePraise God for those who have the courage to speak the Truth. Please add my name to the letter. Joe Faust, St. Louis, MO
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to this excellent letter - written honestly in the style of Father Altman. Thank you!!
ReplyDeleteMrs. Elizabeth Rhodes
PLEASE ADD MY NAME TO THE LETTER Joseph G Sauter, Jr Bridgeville, DE
ReplyDeleteExcellent letter. I would also add..for the sake of the Gospel, I have lost my family. You know, the "I have not come to bring peace but a sword, set mother against daughter" Scripture. For love of my Lord, Jesus Christ, because I have told the truth, my family has shunned me. I found consolation in Fr. Altman's words that I had done the right thing, that the Kingdom comes first. Preach the Gospel whether convenient or inconvenient. Be prepared to give up everything to follow Jesus. Are you giving up everything to follow Jesus, Bishop? What are you clinging to that prevents you from giving all. money? prestige? advancement? promises to others? I certainly hope for your soul, you pick up your cross with joy. I hope you are willing to give up something at least as precious as my family is for the sake of Jesus. And I certainly hope, as witness to that end, you apologize to Fr. Altman and restore his complete freedom to live-stream Mass and preach the Gospel as his higher boss than you has commanded. Prayers for conversion.
ReplyDeleteAnd, on the flip side...I've spent several days on James Martin SJ's facebook page and the amount of heresy, dribble and "I want what I want" spewed by those culture "Catholics" just proves Fr. Altman's point. Bishops, like dearly beloved Bishop Strickland need to grab those people by the ears if necessary, stick their fingers in those ears and (Smack!) pray they be opened! 629,000 followers on James Martin's page while he leads them off the precipice and *crickets* from the church authorities. We are in a spiritual battle. And a great war you will get! St. Michael the Archangel, defend us. St. Joan of Arc, pray for us.
Please add my signature to your letter: Donna M. Bungo St. Joseph Parish Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
I love Father Altman's talks - they are a breath of fresh air and really touch our hearts and souls. Please add my name to the list of signatories.
ReplyDeletePatricia Coupe
New Zealand
New Zealand calling. We love Fr James Altman out here on the leading edge of the planet. What a marvellous priest and message. Keep up the great support and well done on your excellent message Mary Ann. Kia Kaha (Be strong) Jimmy Costello, Punakaiki, New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteMagnificent, truly magnificent. If possible, please add my name to the signers.
ReplyDeleteDennis Ferrara, STD (CUA 1988)
Washington, DC
Please add my name to your letter. Margaret Hans, Charlotte, NC
ReplyDeleteThank you. God Bless.
May Almighty God continue to bless Mary Anne Kreitzer. I, too, am an orthodox Roman Catholic born in an air raid shelter during WW11 in Malta with the DNA of Catholicism there established since St Paul was shipwrecked there in 60AD. Whilst I am appalled by Bishop Callahan's behaviour I am simultaneously not in the least surprised. This is the way of the world. Consider how our Lord and Redeemer was treated, even by His own viz., Judas Ischariot. Consider how the saints were treated - cf St Mother Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) here in Australia and her abominable treatment by a number of bishops, one of which excommunicated her. What a betrayal of the symbolical pallium handed to them at ordination.
ReplyDeleteCould you please include my name, Leonard Attard, at the end of my post under lino2ster@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI realised only after reading other posts that names are included at the conclusion.
I assumed my name would be transferred from my post.,
Thank you Mary Ann Kreitzer for your letter, describing SO well the exact thoughts of orthodox Catholics in support of Father Altman.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the letter.
ReplyDeleteFons Janssen recently resigned from the position of campaign director 40 Daysforlife/melbourne
Australia after many years witnessing and praying .in front of an abortion facility in Melbourne.
Please add my name to this letter. I support and pray for Fr . James Altman.
ReplyDeleteFinally a priest who will speak the truth.
Rosemary Costa
Sunset Beach, NC
Please add my name.
ReplyDeleteJohn Bray, Nashua, NH
I support Fr. Altman and his homilies. Fr. Altman loves us so much he is willing to risk persecution from those in power but decline to do their job of saving our souls. God bless you Fr. Altman.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Robert Wallace...By there fruits, you will know them. We are the church militant, or at least we are supposed to be, especially during times such as these. Father Altman, is a voice crying in the wilderness and that wilderness is the church itself because of weak leaders. We need more Father Altman's crying loudly about the dangers to our very souls and the real consequences of an eternity in hell. Please add my name to the growing list of frustrated Catholics who demand the right to hear the truth. God bless Fr. Altman.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Kris Brost. Please add my name to this letter.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Robert Wallace. Please add it to this long and growing list of frustrated Catholics who yearn for priests with the courage of Fr. Altman.
ReplyDeleteThankyou for having the courage to speak the truth, praying for all Roman Catholics to be given this grace, please add my name, L Costello (UK)
ReplyDeletePlease add our names to the list. Joe & Lori Myers, Madison, CT.
ReplyDeleteI would be honored to add my name to this excellent letter. Praise God for people like yourself, who have the conviction and the courage to speak the truth, and the ability to express that truth so eloquently. Chris Kowalewski, Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada Email: kowalewski_chris@cogeco.ca
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and Father Altman. We, the faithful, need and love his voice. Mary Jo Valocchi
ReplyDeletePraying for an end to abortion, for Truth to be spoken and for the souls of those who fight against the Truth, especially those "in the Church" who deny Jesus. May the grace of God enlighten Bishop Callahan to Who is True and Good and Beautiful. Prayers for you Mary Anne and for Fr Altman.
ReplyDeleteFather Altman is a hero. For 30 years I have been asking "Where are the bishops"? Writing their memoirs? Attending luncheons in each others' honor? I still don't have an answer.
ReplyDeleteThomas Kolberg, Ordinary Sinner
Please add my name in support of Fr Altmann, Peggy Morris severna park, md
ReplyDeletePlease add my name: Susan Valenti, Michigan
ReplyDeletePlease add my name, 100% on point. Thank you for putting into words exactly the thoughts of so many. Marie Weimer. VA.
ReplyDeleteLucia Tirone, Paterson, New Jersey
ReplyDeleteMe too, I'd like to sign this letter:
ReplyDeleteRudnei Wittmann, PhD, Saint-Jerome, QC - Canada
and also, an ordinary sinner.
please add my name, I also emailed you.
ReplyDeleteSharon Mousel-Sparks thank you.
This letter is so beautiful! Thank you
Your powerful letter gave my aching heart the words we all need and the thoughts that will shape our readiness to speak out in our local situations as well. Deo gracias! Connie Hays. Kingwood TX
ReplyDeleteAmen!!🙏
DeletePlease add my name, Andrew Nelson, ND.
ReplyDeleteThanks
I support this courageous priest.
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you for writing this wonderful, well written open letter to the bishop.
ReplyDeleteI am very disheartened that Fr Altman was silenced and yet i shouldn’t be surprised as the many unfortunate cowards in the church will typically silence anyone who dares to speak the truth.
The world has not changed one bit !
“My people perish for lack of Knowledge”
PLEASE ADD MY NAME TO YOUR LIST.
Lucia Tirone, Paterson, NJ.
The letter is totally appropriate & skillfully addressed the issues. I would add the importance of Church Hierarchy taking appropriate steps against the likes of James Martin SJ & his followers, NOT Fr. Altman who should receive praise & encouragement & be elevated to Bishop !!!!!!
ReplyDeletePlease add my name.
ReplyDeleteRachel Murphy
Thank you for this wonderfully written letter. May God bless you in this endeavor! Please add our names:
ReplyDeleteRon and Pilar Jones
Crossville, TN
Thank you for your letter. Well said.
ReplyDeleteNoel Ballard
Please add my name to the list.
ReplyDeleteNoel Ballard TX.
Please add my name to a sublist of Protestants who admire Catholic brothers who speak truth in charity. Exeter England
ReplyDeleteGod bless you for writing this! I completely agree. Please add my name.
ReplyDeleteRod Hamar
Thank you for this letter, truth is hard to deny.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I were watching his homilies nearly daily for inspiration and hope. I am a Family Physician with 41 years experience and totally support his orthodox Catholic sermons. If only our Bishops had his courage the Dems wouldn't have a chance in November. Please add my name to your petition.
Vivo Christo Rey!
Gerald B Mader MD
Please add our names to this letter.
ReplyDeleteJon and Rebecca Fidero
Front Royal, VA
Mary Ann, beautifully done! Brava! Please add my name to the list.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth Poel, VA
Mary Beth Sawyer
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for writing this letter to the Bishop. I agree with everything you have said so beautifully and sincerely. The TRUTH must not be stopped. We need more priests like Fr. Altman. I have shared this particular video with family/friends hoping those who are in darkness would see the light. PLEASE ADD MY NAME AND MY HUSBAND’s NAME TO YOUR LIST. Susan & Michael Pohedra, Herndon, VA God’s peace be with you.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list.
ReplyDeleteNeil Whittington Indiana
Please add my name:
ReplyDeleteDeb Hoppe, South Carolina
Thank you!
Excellent letter. Please add my name: Michael Randolph, Front Royal, VA. Thank you, and God bless you.
ReplyDeleteYour letter to Bishop Callahan is outstanding. Thank you for your witness and your courage to speak up. I have also sent a letter via email to him, but will be honored if you would add my name to this open letter.
ReplyDeleteGod bless,
Sunita Kottoor,
Peoria, IL
Please add my name:
ReplyDeleteAnn Spencer, Wisconsin Rapids WI
Thank you so much!
Please add my name to your letter. You have said everything that needs to be said and done it well, as a faithful Christian, Nazarene. I will reference this in my call to the Bishop! Now I understand WHY I haven't made my call!
ReplyDeleteSr. Jean-Marie Rowe, ocso
Wrentham, MA
Please add these names: Mr & Mrs Roderick Hamar, Sandy Hook, CT.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless you!
Please add my name. I would be very honored to sign your letter. I completely agree with it. Thank you for writing such a hard-hitting letter. Dianne La Barre, New York.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list!
ReplyDeleteMelissa Belcher, South Africa
Please add my name. Thank you and God Bless Fr. Altman.
ReplyDeleteRachel Gast, M.D.; Baltimore, Maryland
Father Altman is absolutely correct. His statement gives me hope for our Church. Please add my name to your letter.
ReplyDeleteSandra Paulley, Houston, Texas
Add Brenda Voss
ReplyDeletePlease add my name Bernadette O’Heir
ReplyDeleteIt's a sad state when the church hierarchy fails to defend the church militant.
ReplyDeleteJim and Pat Althoff
Phoenix, MD
I fully support Father Altman, please add my name!
ReplyDeletePatricia Alvarez, California
Please add my name
ReplyDeleteKatie Schneider, Oklahoma
Thank you for writing this letter, we need bishop to hear us that we support the truth of God and we don’t want the to silence the good pries . That we are in the side of the true gospel. And we want real food not junk food we are tired of that kind of food . We support Fr. James altman 100% and all those who speak the truth.
ReplyDeletePlease sign my husband and my name to the open letter. Sarah Parmeter and Jay Parmeter, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
ReplyDeleteGod Bless and protect Fr Altman!
Please add my name:
ReplyDeleteTram Duong, Leavenworth WA
Thank you.
Please add our names, Ron and Mary Bailey, Enid, Oklahoma. We support Fr. Altman and support defunding Bishops who do not support Catholic teaching.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your devotion to the TRUTH and dedication to the cause of Fr. Altman, an honest and courageous warrior for Christ. Please add our names to the list -John and Kathryn Goetz. We are physicians in America's heartland.
ReplyDeleteI agree with and would like to add my name as a signer on this letter. God, please bless and protect Fr. Altman, Bishop Callahan,and Your Holy Church
ReplyDeleteIn support of Father Altman and all that teach the truth.
ReplyDeleteCharles Stratton Illinois
I add my name to the supporters and prayer warriors supporting Fr. Altman. I pray Bishop Callahan will prayerfully consider each word he reads. It's past time for the Church Militant to speak the truth no matter how politically "incorrect" it may be. This is a beautiful and well-thought letter, and I agree 100%. Lynn Petz, North Dakota
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you!
ReplyDeletePlease add our names: Tom and Denise Fitzpatrick, Groton, MA
Wonderful letter! God bless you and please add our names:
ReplyDeleteTom and Denise Fitzpatrick, Groton, MA
Wonderful letter. Fr. Altman has done wonders for all Catholics. Please add our names (Jim and Mary Eusterbrock. Thank you.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name: Mary Riley, Michigan
ReplyDeleteThank you!
Ken Chascin, Diocese of St. Augustine, Florida
ReplyDeletePlease add my name as signatory of this wonderful letter!
ReplyDeleteBetty Sarratt
Dallas, Texas
Please add my name! This letter addresses the issue so succinctly. Father Altman‘s sermons are like a spiritual oasis in the desert of what’s going on in the Church. He spoke the truth in his video. He said what all priests and bishops should be saying.
ReplyDeleteChris Remmert
North Carolina
Please add my name
ReplyDeletePatricia Ruedas, Georgia
Thank you for doing this. I had personally sent a letter to Bishop Callahan and posted it at several Catholic Facebook sites.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list.
Ron Davis
San Antonio, Texas
Please add my name as I stand with Father James Altman. May name is Mary Ellen Van Dyke, St. John the Evangelist, Daylight, Indiana.
ReplyDeleteDiane McNair, Huntington Beach, CA.
ReplyDeleteLarry Madoski - Huntington Beach, CA
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful defense of Fr Altman. We miss his homilies. Please add our names, David and Nichole Dillon, Nampa, Idaho. Thank you for your courage in expressing all of our thoughts about Fr Altman.
ReplyDeleteThank you for standing up for Truth.
ReplyDeletePlease Add my name to you letter.
Jason Gale OH
Thank you so much Maryann for writing the Bishop and coming to the defense of Father John Altman. Your letter was well written and truthful and was done in Love for God and one of His Holy anointed priests. May Father John never be silenced. God bless and keep us close and protect us from evil both within and outside the church. Amen. Bev Beselaere
ReplyDeletePlease add my name : Mary Ann Gurliaccio,Virginia
ReplyDeleteI am dismayed at the response of Bishop Callahan to Father Altman’s video, Bishop Callahan has not only shown disrespect to-a Priest who lives the faith but by his reprimand he is saying to the faithful...this Priest is not worthy of belief allowing many souls to fall into sin and voting for a man whose policies are against the teachings of the Church....How any cleric can justify a vote for Biden/Harris or a member the Democrat Party full well knowing that the Biden/ Harris team not only supports abortion which in itself is horrific but they support abortion up until birth and after birth which is infanticide. That is a dereliction of their duty and a betrayal of God almighty. Who are these men who can’t see that the murder of humans is an atrocity shared by Natzi Germany? .
This is not a matter strictly about an election but about morality about the sanctity of life..all issues flow from safeguarding life . It is a matter of the teachings of the Church..and instructing the faithful. I am sorry that Bishop Callahan felt a need to reprimand a Priest faithful to Christ and his Church. I will pray for Bishop Callahan but he needs to be reminded that it is HIS duty to safeguard his flock and and teach them that murder of innocence can not be tolerated nor can people support anyone who sanctions those atrocities.
This blog says it all, I could not have said it better. I have been praying for Fr. Altman and his bishop that the out come will be positive. Praise the Lord!!
ReplyDeleteEd Michael
Thank you so much for this open letter. I would appreciate if you would add my name to the ever growing list of supporters.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your letter. Please add my name:
ReplyDeleteJeanette Perrington, Manassas, Virginia
Thank you.
Respectfully adding our names in support of Fr. James Altman,
ReplyDeleteMary and Kevin Adley
Glenview, Illinois
Please add my name to the list of growing supporters. Thank you so much for your right on point open letter.
ReplyDeleteMaureen Stephens, Woodstock Il
Bronwyn Curtis
ReplyDeletePlease add my name, Katherine Hathaway, Norway. Thank you.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name, Katherine Hathaway, Norway. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteKathleen and Ralph Simon, Crosby, TX
ReplyDeleteIs it any wonder Catholics are so confused when brave Priests who speak out are slapped down by their Bishop, God help those superiors who may have millstones around their necks, I pray for the intercession of St, John the Baptist for our brave Priests who speak out, Please include my name as a supporter of Fr. Altman,
ReplyDeleteDiane Hill
Wonderful letter. Please add my name to it. Liela Hathaway. Somerset. United Kingdom
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to the list. I stand with Fr. Altman!
ReplyDeleteAidan Kiley, Fairfield, CT
I am touched to see so much support for Father James Altman for proclaiming the truth and doing it so publicly! Many thanks to you also for supporting him in writing such a concise and challenging letter to Bishop William Callahan encouraging him to rescind his threatened consequences. Thank you for putting this into a public format for others to join and share their concerns too! Please add our names to your list supporting Father James Altman!!!
ReplyDeleteAlan & Lami Unterreiner, Meridian Idaho.
Father Altman is a blessing and should serve as an example of what being a Priest looks like!
ReplyDeletePlease add my name:
John McCullouch, Arizona
Father Altman is an example of what being a Priest should look like. He makes me proud to be Catholic.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name:
John McCullouch, Arizona
Please add my name to the list:
ReplyDeleteFrank Quezada (Cursillista)
Soledad, California
Thank you ��✝️
Please add my name. Joanne Whalen, St. Paul, MN
ReplyDeleteBoth my husband and I have been sickened by everything we have heard about our beautiful Catholic Church since Archbishop Vigano's testimony back in August 2018. We want our church back! Every single day we offer prayers that our Church be cleansed of all the evil that resides within, namely, the Bad Shepherds. We absolutely love Father Altman! How incredible it would be to have a priest so on fire to proclaim the Truth of our faith at our parish instead of priests who are afraid to offend people. How many times did Jesus say "Hypocrite" to people. Our Church, the Church of Nice, has "Protestanized" our faith, putting Jesus in a meadow handing out balloons. But the Orthodox Catholic Church is alive and well and we stand behind Father Altman and all clergy who speak the Truth! Bishop Callahan, as a Shepherd of Christ, why are you trying to lead the sheep over the cliff?
ReplyDeleteForgot to include a resounding thank you for writing this letter (to the previously submitted comment). Please add our names:. Thomas & Karyn Burt
ReplyDeleteThank you for your excellent letter in support of fr Altman. Please include my name as a signatory. John Sterett, Most Holy Trinity Parish, Augusta, GA.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name:
ReplyDeleteMargo Burke
Fayetteville, GA
Thank you for your excellent letter in support of Fr Altman. Please add my name as a signatory. John Sterett, Most Holy Trinity parish, Augusta, GA.
ReplyDeletePlease add our names,
ReplyDeleteHelen & Richard Balogh, SC
Duncan Ownhouse. I Stand With Father Altman
ReplyDeleteHi
ReplyDeletePlease add my name
Gisa George, New Zealand
Please add my name to the letter:
ReplyDeleteDorothy Manuel
15/97 Albert Street
East Melbourne Vic 3002
Australia
Email: Dorothy.Manuel@svha.org.au
Thank you.
Anna Halbrook
ReplyDeletePlease add me: Johannes Posch, Halle(Saale) in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
ReplyDeleteI stand with Fr James Altman!
ReplyDeleteMarilyn Quirk
ReplyDeleteThank you, I Agee with your letter!
how may I add my signature? God bless
ReplyDeleteI'm a nobody - no title other than LT, USNRet - but I applaud the letter and request my name be appended to it.
ReplyDeleteThanks.
Kathleene M Daly, LT, USNRet, Suquamish WA
What a beautiful defense of Fr Altman. We miss his homilies. Please add our names, David and Nichole Dillon, Nampa, Idaho. Thank you for your courage in expressing all of our thoughts about Fr Altman.
ReplyDeletePlease add my name Jessica Delia Philadelphia, PA
ReplyDeleteI can certainly see why you are the president Mary Ann!
ReplyDeletePlease add me, Joe Daues, St Cletus Church st-charles Missouri
Just reading the comments of my fellow faithful Catholics regarding this open letter gives me hope. Fr. Altman has inspired each of us who has come to this page (and doubtless many hundreds more who have not). Imagine if we each went out and spoke the truth the way Fr. Altman has. Imagine how we could change the "conversation" in the world!
ReplyDeletePlease add our names to your letter:
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Haywood
Please add my name: Elvie M. Houck, Milwaukee, WI
ReplyDeletePlease add my name to your wonderful letter.
ReplyDeleteMary Jo Witte
Please add my name. Diane Wolf, South Milwaukee, WI
ReplyDeletePlease add our names to the open letter to Bishop Callahan. Mr & Mrs S. Miller, Charlottesville VA
ReplyDeleteI stand with Fr. James Altmann.
ReplyDeleteRoberta Sprague Schaefer, St. Teresa of Calcutta parish