TRR photo by Tom Kane Bishop James Timlin, of Scranton, speaks candidly about recent problems plaguing the Society of Saint John in Shohola. (Click for larger image)

Finance issues plague priests’ society

Board of advisor members resign

By TOM KANE

SHOHOLA — Allegations of sexual improprieties by two priests are not the only charges being leveled by critics at the Society of Saint John, a group of 17 priests and seminarians living in Shohola.

The society is also accused of numerous extravagant financial practices by members of its board of advisors. So serious are these accusations that a number of the board have resigned and separated themselves from the society.

Bishop pledges support

Despite these accusations, James Timlin, Bishop of Scranton, recently reiterated his  support of the society and its goals.

“In my statement, I said I completely support what they are doing,” he said. “I didn’t say they had to keep the property. I’m not going to kick them when they’re down. If the contributions dry up, they’re going to have to get out of there.”