If anyone was confused or distraught by the statement issued by the Diocese of Fort Worth regarding Father Richard Kirkham’s case in Rome, we believe that an explanation from a canon lawyer familiar with Father Richard’s case will prove helpful.
Fr. David Deibel, who is Fr. Richard Kirkham’s canon lawyer, has advised the following.
In an eight page decision, the Congregation for Clergy, which is a dicastery of the Holy See, concluded that Fr. Kirkham’s suspension was both invalidly inflicted and procedurally improper.
Although the Congregation for Clergy declined to overturn Bishop Olson’s forced resignation of Fr. Kirkham, it stated that a judicial process would have to make that determination. Needless to say, Fr. Kirkham is considering pursuing this course of action as the Congregation duly noted he has the right to do.
The Congregation for Clergy also took cognizance of Fr. Kirkham’s right under Texas civil law to his place of domicile (residence).
Rev. David L. Deibel, JCL, JD
Canon Lawyer for Father Richard Kirkham
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