Diocese removes controversial pastor

By TOM KANE

SHOHOLA, PA — The Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton has removed the pastor of St. Ann’s Church in Shohola and assigned him to another church. Father Thomas Petro will now be the pastor of St. Luke’s Church in Jersey Shore, PA.

The announcement of the removal was contained in a letter from Bishop Joseph F. Martino that was read from the pulpit of St. Ann parishioners on Sunday, September 11. The letter also announced that Father Paul M. Mullen, pastor of St. Vincent DePaul parish in Milford, PA, will act as a temporary administrator until the bishop can find a permanent replacement.

In the letter, the bishop said, “Father Petro has accepted a new assignment. It is important you understand that for serious pastoral reasons, I am required to make this change.”

The letter went on to inform the parish that the priest would not be replaced. “Unfortunately, because of limited priest personnel and ever expanding pastoral needs in the Diocese of Scranton, I am not able to assign a resident pastor to St. Ann at this time.”

The bishop assured parishioners of the continuation of the pastoral life of the Catholic Church in the Shohola area.

“I pray that you will understand that the current number of priests available to serve as pastor is limited,” the bishop wrote. “I want to ensure the faithful that every effort will be made to meet your spiritual needs. It is my hope that you will welcome Father Mullen and his assistant as together they strive to serve you and to proclaim the Gospel by word and deed.”

Father Petro has been the subject of controversy in the parish and has divided it into two camps—those supporting him and those opposing him. A parishioner, who asked to remain unnamed, said that over 40 families have left St. Ann and transferred their attendance to neighboring churches. The bishop’s letter made no mention of the controversy.

Father Petro could not be reached for comment.

Father Paul M. Mullen will also act as administrator to the mission churches, Sacred Heart of Jesus in Greeley, and St. Mary of the Assumption in Lackawaxen. He will continue as pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Milford.

Father Philip S. Rayappan, a priest from India, will serve as assistant pastor to both parish communities.