Plea of Guilty
On Friday, March 7, 2008 Judge Margie R. Braxton of the Third Ciruit Court announced her sentence evaluation for the former parish secretary in the Saint Dunstan embezzlement case. For embezzlement over $20,000 and the use of a computer in a crime, the proposed sentence is probation of which the first 120 days will be served in Wayne County jail. The judge has no objection to a work-release program or having the sentence served during weekends. Restitution based on current income will be explored - potentially up to $200 per month as well as a portion of her home equity ($10,000). Based on the Judge’s sentencing evaluation, a plea of guilty was entered by the former parish secretary.
The Wayne County Prosecutor confirmed the Archdiocese of Detroit was in agreement with the proposed sentencing evaluation. The sentencing date will be May 9, 2008.
Letter to Cardinal Maida
February 24th, 2008
His Eminence Adam Cardinal Maida Archbishop of Detroit 1234 Washington Blvd. CH - 7th Floor Detroit, MI 48226-1875Re: Saint Dunstan Catholic Church
February 24. 2008
Dear Cardinal Maida:
As Easter approaches, Catholics are inspired by the many lessons that accompany the Feast of Feasts. The Resurrection reveals a God filled with hope not despair, love not hate, forgiveness not blame. We know that Jesus was able to forgive those who persecuted and crucified Him. After the Resurrection, He did not chastise, blame or berate his disciples, even though they had betrayed, denied and abandoned Him. We learn that our God does not admonish, intimidate or dominate. He made forgiveness the cornerstone of the Church.
Though I do not speak for anyone but myself, I ask that you find forgiveness in your heart for all those responsible for the upheaval surrounding Saint Dunstan parish. The wide chasm between the Archdiocese and the people in the pews needs to be bridged by your moral leadership. There will be no victory in domination. Only by your example of forgiveness will the anger, resentment and confusion being felt by all sides of this crisis be calmed.
This Easter is the ideal time to return Father Donald Demmer to Saint Dunstan parish. Nothing that has happened is unforgivable. For over thirty years Father Don has been an exemplary priest serving the spiritual needs of the Archdiocese of Detroit. If Jesus can forgive those who killed him, certainly as Cardinal you can forgive Father Don, the AOD and the parishioners of Saint Dunstan for their trespasses.
There is a valid accounting system now in place at Saint Dunstan, including a parish council and stewardship committee. Father Don has accepted personal responsibility for our current financial predicament and desires to return to Saint Dunstan to make reparations and rebuild our community of faith. The people in the pews continue to prayer for his return.
God and men have entrusted you with the authority to make a decision regarding where Father Don will continue his ministry. We pray your decision is made with God’s love and mercy in your heart.
Most sincerely,
Gregg M. Ward St. Dunstan Parishioner