Catholic Info
Traditional Catholic Faith => General Discussion => Topic started by: Maria Auxiliadora on April 30, 2019, 09:00:58 PM
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http://isoc.ws/donate/
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: We are temporarily accepting donations for (remaining) medical and funeral expenses for Rev. Fr. Joseph F. Collins, our beloved friend and unofficial chaplain. Contributions received will be earmarked especially for travel and Mass expenses for clergy, ceremonial furnishings and sundries, and a modest reception – to the extent possible – for the faithful coming from near and far in honor of Father. Wake and Vespers (tentative) to take place Tuesday afternoon/evening, May 7, 2019, at St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, Glenmont, NY, followed on May 8 (same location) by an early Mass for the Solemnity of St. Joseph (tentative), with Matins/Lauds of the Dead and the Requiem Mass and Burial Office following. Times and further details forthcoming.
A block of rooms for those coming from out of town has been reserved for May 7-9, 2019, at the Comfort Inn, 37 Route 9W, Glenmont, NY 12077. Please mention the “Fr. Collins funeral” in order to receive the “group” rate of $114 per night. (Anyone who vitally needs financial assistance with lodging or travel costs should let us know at the email address indicated below.) A small reception is planned for the afternoon of May 8 at the Appleby’s nearby, just a ways north on Route 9W. Finances permitting, refreshments and snacks will be complimentary.
NOTE: Contributions may be made on Fr.’s behalf using the “make a donation” button below, but PLEASE BE SURE to write “Fr. Collins funeral” in the note when making a contribution so that the funds can be properly set aside. Alternatively, donations may be made via PayPal directly to isoc.com@charter.net – but PLEASE note “Fr. Collins funeral” in conjunction with any contribution.
Those wishing to contribute by check should semd checks payable to “ISOC” to P.O. Box 87, Glenelg, MD 21737 – and, as with electronic contributions, PLEASE note “Fr. Collins Funeral” in conjunction with any donation.
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The “In the Spirit of Chartres” Committee was set up as a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)3 corporation in January of 1998 before the first ISOC pilgrimage. Because it takes funds to manage any organization, ISOC, has through the years, held all kinds of fund-raisers: bake sales, garage sales, Christmas boutiques, and of course, mail solicitations, etc. And we continue to ask for donations because without them, we cannot operate and continue our activities.
So with that in mind, we ask you to help us maintain and continue all the activities ISOC participates in, but most especially now in the maintenance of this new website and the ever increasing costs of hard and software.
If you can help, please feel free to send whatever you can to ISOC at P.O. Box 87, Glenelg, MD 21737. Please make check or money order payable to ISOC. Or donate through PayPal. Our account name is isoc.com@charter.net (http://www.isoc.ws/%22mailto:isoc.com@charter.net/%22).
And please accept our sincerest thanks for your help.
In the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts.
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Another option would be to donate directly to St Michael's Chapel in Glenmont, NY:
St Michael's Chapel
507 Route 9W
Glenmont, NY 12077
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Another option would be to donate directly to St Michael's Chapel in Glenmont, NY:
St Michael's Chapel
507 Route 9W
Glenmont, NY 12077
That seems like a very good option.
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Interesting that the clergy to actually offer Father Collins' Requiem Mass is still not named.
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Interesting that the clergy to actually offer Father Collins' Requiem Mass is still not named.
I feel bad over this, as Father was a very close friend of mine, but I’m not changing my plans again to attend next week. Things are not set in stone (many things are “tentative”) and I’m not certain that there won’t be anymore changes. I’ve had masses offered for the repose of his soul and I will continue to pray for him.
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Interesting that the clergy to actually offer Father Collins' Requiem Mass is still not named.
:laugh1: What do you expect - a news conference?
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I feel bad over this, as Father was a very close friend of mine, but I’m not changing my plans again to attend next week. Things are not set in stone (many things are “tentative”) and I’m not certain that there won’t be anymore changes. I’ve had masses offered for the repose of his soul and I will continue to pray for him.
Haven't decided yet, but ...at this point...I would be surprised if there weren't anymore changes.
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Haven't decided yet, but ...at this point...I would be surprised if there weren't anymore changes.
I know how much you cared for him and he knew it too, so don’t feel badly if you decide not to make it.
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That seems like a very good option.
I’m seriously confused. Donations from the public are being requested?? I was forwarded a copy of an email that is making the rounds saying that Father Collins left sufficient funds to take care of remaining medical bills and funeral expenses! I will not be donating and would very strongly caution anyone else who is considering it.
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I’m seriously confused. Donations from the public are being requested?? I was forwarded a copy of an email that is making the rounds saying that Father Collins left sufficient funds to take care of remaining medical bills and funeral expenses! I will not be donating and would very strongly caution anyone else who is considering it.
I don't know about the medical/funeral expenses. However, there are travel arrangements (plane flights, etc.) to be made for priests/bishop. Then there's housing them, feeding them, stipends, etc.
The funds left by Fr. Collins may not be available/earmarked for such "extras".
At the end of the day, it's not just a matter of paying the hospital and the funeral home.
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I’m seriously confused. Donations from the public are being requested?? I was forwarded a copy of an email that is making the rounds saying that Father Collins left sufficient funds to take care of remaining medical bills and funeral expenses! I will not be donating and would very strongly caution anyone else who is considering it.
:confused:
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I don't know about the medical/funeral expenses. However, there are travel arrangements (plane flights, etc.) to be made for priests/bishop. Then there's housing them, feeding them, stipends, etc.
The funds left by Fr. Collins may not be available/earmarked for such "extras".
At the end of the day, it's not just a matter of paying the hospital and the funeral home.
I think you need to re-read the text ofJudith Sharpe's request in the OP.
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I think you need to re-read the text ofJudith Sharpe's request in the OP.
I did. I haven't seen the email Colossians323 refers to, nor do I know who sent it.
As we have seen from other emails "making the rounds" (e.g., Fr. Cekada), not everything that arrives in one's inbox paints an accurate picture.
I know the Sharpes personally, Judith and John in particular, and they would never deceive people or ask for contributions like this if Father had taken care of everything.
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I did. I haven't seen the email Colossians323 refers to, nor do I know who sent it.
As we have seen from other emails "making the rounds" (e.g., Fr. Cekada), not everything that arrives in one's inbox paints an accurate picture.
I know the Sharps personally, Judith and John in particular, and they would never deceive people or ask for contributions like this if Father had taken care of everything.
And we all know that not everything posted at Cathinfo paints an accurate picture.
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(http://isoc.ws/donate/)
http://isoc.ws/donate/ (http://isoc.ws/donate/)
STATEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF FR. JOSEPH F. COLLINS: “Based in part on consultation with intimate friends and family of Fr. Collins, his Estate has authorized the establishment of a means to accept donations to assist the Estate with expenses for his funeral and remaining medical bills. Solely as a matter of convenience and given the pressure of time, the donations will be accepted by a small Catholic organization (see http://isoc.ws (http://isoc.ws)) that Fr. Collins supported as chaplain and advisor over the last years of his earthly life. (In consequence, and quite obviously, the donations are for Fr.’s Estate expenses and not for the organization. [Take note of tax consequences accordingly.] An accounting of income and expenses will be made at the appropriate time after receipts and Estate debts are tallied.) While contributions will be gratefully received, the Estate does not in any way wish to impede contributions that may be made to priests and religious organizations around the world for Masses to be said for the repose of Fr. Collins’s soul. We also acknowledge the regrettable circulation (apparently by individuals close to Fr. and unconcerned with his privacy or of the legal implications of circulating inaccurate and potentially defamatory information) of rumors to the effect that the Estate came into possession of a very large sum of money upon Fr.’s departure from this life. Without conceding any limitations upon the legal authority vested by common and positive law in Fr.’s Estate, we finally note, for the sake of transparency and the assurance of potential contributors and other interested parties, that 1) the Estate does not control the account holding the aforementioned sum (the exact value of which is presently unknown), which is both legally and practically inaccessible to the Estate; 2) the Estate is willing to receive contributions merely to offset (and reimburse in a timely way) funeral costs and other Estate debts that include, most importantly, the travel expenses (and stipends, as applicable) of clergy, singers, and impoverished laity who wish to attend the services but who would otherwise be impeded financially from doing so; 3) the key surviving family members expressly endorsed this course of action for the opportunity it would provide for individuals who knew and loved Fr. to show their appreciation of his life by the tangible means of financial participation in his obsequies; and 4) this course of action is consistent with Fr.’s final wishes, expressed numerous times and in various ways – a fact as to which at least one person is prepared, if necessary, to offer eye-witness testimony under oath, and which is also confirmed by readily available extrinsic evidence.”
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Without conceding any limitations upon the legal authority vested by common and positive law in Fr.’s Estate, we finally note, for the sake of transparency and the assurance of potential contributors and other interested parties, that 1) the Estate does not control the account holding the aforementioned sum (the exact value of which is presently unknown), which is both legally and practically inaccessible to the Estate; 2) the Estate is willing to receive contributions merely to offset (and reimburse in a timely way) funeral costs and other Estate debts that include, most importantly, the travel expenses (and stipends, as applicable) of clergy, singers, and impoverished laity who wish to attend the services but who would otherwise be impeded financially from doing so;
So, does this mean that you guarantee full reimbursement of donated funds as soon as "the Estate" takes control of and has access to the funds in the account?
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https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr (https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall)-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall (https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall)
Glenmont - It is with heavy and hope filled hearts that we announce the passing of Father Joseph Francis Collins, age 66, from this veil of tears just before noon on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Father Collins served as Priest for St. Michael’s Traditional Catholic Chapel in Glenmont, New York and died peacefully in the Chapel’s Rectory.
Father had received a recent cancer diagnosis and was under the care of Community Hospice along with a brother priest and beloved parishioners. His final hour came quickly, but he was well prepared. His brother priest gave him final absolution, and recited the prayers for the dying. Father also received Extreme Unction and the Apostolic Blessing shortly after the seriousness of his illness became evident. He also received Holy Communion as Viaticuм on a daily basis, including on his final day. Over the last three weeks, he had a resurgence of energy that allowed him to receive many visitors, and to make or receive a number of phone calls. Father Collins is survived by his Mother, Edith E. Koptick Collins of Virginia, and five brothers; William O. Collins Jr., Thomas R. Collins, Gerard M. Collins, Christopher P. Collins, and Kevin P. Collins; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Father, William O. Collins. Father Collins was born on October 6th, 1952 in Jamaica, New York to William O. Collins and Edith E. Koptick Collins. He graduated from McLean High School in McLean, Virginia and then attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He developed a calling to the priesthood and entered priestly formation in Econe Switzerland, receiving his Diaconate on December 24, 1979 and his Ordination to the Priesthood on June 27th, 1980; both by Archbishop Marcellus Lefebvre of the Priestly Society of Saint Pius X. Father Collins served as Priest and Headmaster of St. Mary’s Academy in St. Mary’s Kansas from 1980 to 1982. He served as Priest at St. Pius V Chapel in Oyster Bay, New York and Principal at St. Pius V School in Wantagh, New York from 1983 to 1988. Father served as Priest in St. Michael the Archangel Church in Jacksonville, Florida from 1989 to 1999 and then as Priest at St. Michael’s Chapel in Glenmont, New York and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel /Sacred Heart Chapel in Hudson, New York from 1999 until his March, 2019 cancer diagnosis left him unable to further perform his Priestly duties. A Requeim Mass will be held Wednesday, May 8th, 11:00 am at St. Michael's Chapel, 507 Rt. 9W, Glenmont, NY. Friends may call at the church, Tuesday, 5-9:00 pm.
Father Collins requested donations in his name could be made to Bishop Daniel Dolan / St. Gertrude the Great Chapel 4900 Rialto Rd, West Chester Township, OH 45069 http://www.sgg.org/ (http://www.sgg.org/)
(http://www.sgg.org/)
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https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr (https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall)-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall (https://www.meyersfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Fr-Joseph-Francis-Collins?obId=4367670#/celebrationWall)
Glenmont - It is with heavy and hope filled hearts that we announce the passing of Father Joseph Francis Collins, age 66, from this veil of tears just before noon on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Father Collins served as Priest for St. Michael’s Traditional Catholic Chapel in Glenmont, New York and died peacefully in the Chapel’s Rectory.
Father had received a recent cancer diagnosis and was under the care of Community Hospice along with a brother priest and beloved parishioners. His final hour came quickly, but he was well prepared. His brother priest gave him final absolution, and recited the prayers for the dying. Father also received Extreme Unction and the Apostolic Blessing shortly after the seriousness of his illness became evident. He also received Holy Communion as Viaticuм on a daily basis, including on his final day. Over the last three weeks, he had a resurgence of energy that allowed him to receive many visitors, and to make or receive a number of phone calls. Father Collins is survived by his Mother, Edith E. Koptick Collins of Virginia, and five brothers; William O. Collins Jr., Thomas R. Collins, Gerard M. Collins, Christopher P. Collins, and Kevin P. Collins; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Father, William O. Collins. Father Collins was born on October 6th, 1952 in Jamaica, New York to William O. Collins and Edith E. Koptick Collins. He graduated from McLean High School in McLean, Virginia and then attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He developed a calling to the priesthood and entered priestly formation in Econe Switzerland, receiving his Diaconate on December 24, 1979 and his Ordination to the Priesthood on June 27th, 1980; both by Archbishop Marcellus Lefebvre of the Priestly Society of Saint Pius X. Father Collins served as Priest and Headmaster of St. Mary’s Academy in St. Mary’s Kansas from 1980 to 1982. He served as Priest at St. Pius V Chapel in Oyster Bay, New York and Principal at St. Pius V School in Wantagh, New York from 1983 to 1988. Father served as Priest in St. Michael the Archangel Church in Jacksonville, Florida from 1989 to 1999 and then as Priest at St. Michael’s Chapel in Glenmont, New York and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel /Sacred Heart Chapel in Hudson, New York from 1999 until his March, 2019 cancer diagnosis left him unable to further perform his Priestly duties. A Requeim Mass will be held Wednesday, May 8th, 11:00 am at St. Michael's Chapel, 507 Rt. 9W, Glenmont, NY. Friends may call at the church, Tuesday, 5-9:00 pm.
Father Collins requested donations in his name could be made to Bishop Daniel Dolan / St. Gertrude the Great Chapel 4900 Rialto Rd, West Chester Township, OH 45069 http://www.sgg.org/ (http://www.sgg.org/)
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Interesting that earlier today I saw the funeral home website with the request for donations to be sent to Bishop Dolan. I just saw the website again and that request has disappeared.
Something is not right.
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Interesting that earlier today I saw the funeral home website with the request for donations to be sent to Bishop Dolan. I just saw the website again and that request has disappeared.
Something is not right.
It is possible it was posted by an unauthorized person who has no knowledge of the Will. Just as they dropped the initial funeral arrangements. My guess.
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What is wrong with $$ for Masses to be said for Fr. Collins, RIP
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What is wrong with $$ for Masses to be said for Fr. Collins, RIP
I, and TKGS were referring to the last statement on the obituary (in bold).
Glenmont - It is with heavy and hope filled hearts that we announce the passing of Father Joseph Francis Collins, age 66, from this veil of tears just before noon on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Father Collins served as Priest for St. Michael’s Traditional Catholic Chapel in Glenmont, New York and died peacefully in the Chapel’s Rectory.
Father had received a recent cancer diagnosis and was under the care of Community Hospice along with a brother priest and beloved parishioners. His final hour came quickly, but he was well prepared. His brother priest gave him final absolution, and recited the prayers for the dying. Father also received Extreme Unction and the Apostolic Blessing shortly after the seriousness of his illness became evident. He also received Holy Communion as Viaticuм on a daily basis, including on his final day. Over the last three weeks, he had a resurgence of energy that allowed him to receive many visitors, and to make or receive a number of phone calls. Father Collins is survived by his Mother, Edith E. Koptick Collins of Virginia, and five brothers; William O. Collins Jr., Thomas R. Collins, Gerard M. Collins, Christopher P. Collins, and Kevin P. Collins; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Father, William O. Collins. Father Collins was born on October 6th, 1952 in Jamaica, New York to William O. Collins and Edith E. Koptick Collins. He graduated from McLean High School in McLean, Virginia and then attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He developed a calling to the priesthood and entered priestly formation in Econe Switzerland, receiving his Diaconate on December 24, 1979 and his Ordination to the Priesthood on June 27th, 1980; both by Archbishop Marcellus Lefebvre of the Priestly Society of Saint Pius X. Father Collins served as Priest and Headmaster of St. Mary’s Academy in St. Mary’s Kansas from 1980 to 1982. He served as Priest at St. Pius V Chapel in Oyster Bay, New York and Principal at St. Pius V School in Wantagh, New York from 1983 to 1988. Father served as Priest in St. Michael the Archangel Church in Jacksonville, Florida from 1989 to 1999 and then as Priest at St. Michael’s Chapel in Glenmont, New York and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel /Sacred Heart Chapel in Hudson, New York from 1999 until his March, 2019 cancer diagnosis left him unable to further perform his Priestly duties. A Requeim Mass will be held Wednesday, May 8th, 11:00 am at St. Michael's Chapel, 507 Rt. 9W, Glenmont, NY. Friends may call at the church, Tuesday, 5-9:00 pm.
Father Collins requested donations in his name could be made to Bishop Daniel Dolan / St. Gertrude the Great Chapel 4900 Rialto Rd, West Chester Township, OH 45069 http://www.sgg.org/ (http://www.sgg.org/)
(http://www.sgg.org/)
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If anyone wishes to have a mass said for the repose of Father Collins’ soul, I suggest using the following link:
https://sggresources.org/products/request-mass-intentions (https://sggresources.org/products/request-mass-intentions)
This link is to Saint Gertrude the Great Church under the care of Bishop Dolan.
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From the bulletin of St Gertrude the Great:
The sorrow of the death of Fr. Collins, a true priest and former confrere, one of “the nine,” was compounded with confusion and scandal when the lay executor cancelled the agreed upon funeral plans at the last minute. Tickets had been purchased, mourners had begun their travel. Fr. Collins had agreed to the original arrangements, and left money for all the funeral expenses. Now Catholics are being asked to donate for this cause under false pretenses. All very unfortunate. Sometimes funerals bring out the worst in people. We hope to have a Solemn Mass for the repose of Father’s soul at a later date.
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From the bulletin of St Gertrude the Great:
The sorrow of the death of Fr. Collins, a true priest and former confrere, one of “the nine,” was compounded with confusion and scandal when the lay executor cancelled the agreed upon funeral plans at the last minute. Tickets had been purchased, mourners had begun their travel. Fr. Collins had agreed to the original arrangements, and left money for all the funeral expenses. Now Catholics are being asked to donate for this cause under false pretenses. All very unfortunate. Sometimes funerals bring out the worst in people. We hope to have a Solemn Mass for the repose of Father’s soul at a later date.
The following was posted on another thread. It's a reply from the executor, CDR John Sharpe, USN, (who spent the last 96 hours of Fr.'s life non stop caring for him) to Fr. Cekada. If someone is guilty of causing "confusion and scandal", would be the very accusers who acted contrary to Fr. Collins Last Will and Testament initiating plans they were not authorized to do.
https://www.cathinfo.com/the-sacred-catholic-liturgy-chant-prayers/prayers-for-father-joseph-collins/msg652436/#msg652436
Dear Fr. Cekada: This is CDR John Sharpe, USN, the Executor of Fr. Collins's Estate - as you correctly note. (I write from my wife's account with her permission.) Despite my personal distaste for social media, I feel obliged to point out that your post is factually inaccurate and defamatory, as the text of Fr. Collins's Last Will and Testament will confirm. I respectfully request and demand that you remove it from public view and/or circulation immediately. (I also note for your benefit that it is likely actionable in my home state of Maryland under the latter's long-arm jurisdiction statute.) Those of your followers or readers (or whatever they are called) who are interested in the facts may contact me directly via cell phone at 757 332 2074 or email at john.sharpe@charter.net (john.sharpe@charter.net). Additionally, anyone interested in simply attending Fr. Collins's funeral to pray for the repose of his soul and celebrate his tremendous, one-of-a-kind legacy, are encouraged and absolutely welcome to do so (on the evening of May 7 and the morning of May 8 in Glenmont, NY), putting aside the questions of who officiates at the ceremonies and the date they are conducted. (Incidentally, and finally, you may be interested to know that email transcripts and records of text messages, telephone calls, and voicemails will confirm my attempts on this past Saturday (less than 6 hours after Fr.'s entrance into immortality), Sunday, and Monday to contact Bishop Dolan directly - who personally provided me with his direct email address for that purpose - in order to coordinate and collaborate with him - rather than exclude him, his enterprise, or you - with regard to details of the funeral rites. Your defamatory social media post was, as it happens, the only reply I received in response to my otherwise unsuccessful communications attempts.) Yours most sincerely in Our Lord and His Holy Mother. --Feast of St. Catherine of Siena.
And this previous post:
(http://isoc.ws/donate/)
http://isoc.ws/donate/ (http://isoc.ws/donate/)
STATEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF FR. JOSEPH F. COLLINS: “Based in part on consultation with intimate friends and family of Fr. Collins, his Estate has authorized the establishment of a means to accept donations to assist the Estate with expenses for his funeral and remaining medical bills. Solely as a matter of convenience and given the pressure of time, the donations will be accepted by a small Catholic organization (see http://isoc.ws (http://isoc.ws)) that Fr. Collins supported as chaplain and advisor over the last years of his earthly life. (In consequence, and quite obviously, the donations are for Fr.’s Estate expenses and not for the organization. [Take note of tax consequences accordingly.] An accounting of income and expenses will be made at the appropriate time after receipts and Estate debts are tallied.) While contributions will be gratefully received, the Estate does not in any way wish to impede contributions that may be made to priests and religious organizations around the world for Masses to be said for the repose of Fr. Collins’s soul. We also acknowledge the regrettable circulation (apparently by individuals close to Fr. and unconcerned with his privacy or of the legal implications of circulating inaccurate and potentially defamatory information) of rumors to the effect that the Estate came into possession of a very large sum of money upon Fr.’s departure from this life. Without conceding any limitations upon the legal authority vested by common and positive law in Fr.’s Estate, we finally note, for the sake of transparency and the assurance of potential contributors and other interested parties, that 1) the Estate does not control the account holding the aforementioned sum (the exact value of which is presently unknown), which is both legally and practically inaccessible to the Estate; 2) the Estate is willing to receive contributions merely to offset (and reimburse in a timely way) funeral costs and other Estate debts that include, most importantly, the travel expenses (and stipends, as applicable) of clergy, singers, and impoverished laity who wish to attend the services but who would otherwise be impeded financially from doing so; 3) the key surviving family members expressly endorsed this course of action for the opportunity it would provide for individuals who knew and loved Fr. to show their appreciation of his life by the tangible means of financial participation in his obsequies; and 4) this course of action is consistent with Fr.’s final wishes, expressed numerous times and in various ways – a fact as to which at least one person is prepared, if necessary, to offer eye-witness testimony under oath, and which is also confirmed by readily available extrinsic evidence.”
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I'm confused as to why such extensive efforts ( texts , emails, etc) were made to include Bishop Dolan when certain parties are alleging that Fr Collins did not request his involvement.
:confused:
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Why all the cloak-and-dagger nonsense? When/where is Father Collins' funeral and which bishop(s) and/or priest(s) will be officiating?
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Father Cekada would never issue a defamatory statement. :laugh1:
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was compounded with confusion and scandal when the lay executor cancelled the agreed upon funeral plans at the last minute.
The executor has to follow the specifics of the will, by law. If he doesn't, he can be fined. Sounds like what Fr Collins' put in his will was different than what he told +Dolan and +Cekada. That's the only logical explanation.
For example: if the will said that the funeral mass was to be held 3 days after the death vs 2 days that Dolan/Cekada had thought. That kind of thing can cause all kinds of travel issues, and logistical problems. The issue has to be something like this.
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I'm confused as to why such extensive efforts ( texts , emails, etc) were made to include Bishop Dolan when certain parties are alleging that Fr Collins did not request his involvement.
:confused:
Also :confused:
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I'm confused as to why such extensive efforts ( texts , emails, etc) were made to include Bishop Dolan when certain parties are alleging that Fr Collins did not request his involvement.
:confused:
My wife was not "alleging" anything. To allege is to assert without proof. We have not read Fr. Collins Will but are in communication with those who have. Fr. Collins made John Sharpe, his dear friend for many years and compatriot for liturgical excellence, the executor of his estate and last Will. Therefore, John Sharpe has the legal and moral authority to make all decisions regarding Fr. Collins funeral and those decisions should be respected by all. This can be a very difficult and thankless responsibility but I could not ask for a better Catholic man of tested virtue to perform this task than John Sharpe. The implications made on this thread and others often anonymously suggest that John Sharpe is not fulfilling Fr. Collins will and is cynically using his authority as executor to collect money that is not needed for the funeral expenses for his own ends. Those who have made this insinuation without a shred of evidence are guilty of grave calumny. Are they so stupid that they believe that God cannot impute guilt to "anonymous" sin?
Fr. Collins made John Sharpe his executor therefore, John has the authority and responsibility for the direction of every detail in the funeral arrangements and this selection proves the insight of Fr. Collins. In his Will, Fr. Collins requested that John Sharpe enroll Bishop Neville, assisted by Frs. McMahon, Ahern, Ringrose, and Zapp, to offer his funeral Mass and burial rites. Fr. McMahon, who we can assume read Fr. Collin's Will because he signed it as one of the witnesses, on his own authority, contacted Bishop Dolan and tried to set aside both John Sharpe and Fr. Collins last requests regarding his funeral by placing Bishop Dolan in charge. John Sharpe is not a man to be gainsaid and he stopped this effort by standing up to Fr. McMahon and the others who attempted to usurp the direction of the funeral. I can only guess at their motives which might be an interesting thread on its own. These usurpers made every effort to take charge of the entire funeral arrangement which included an obituary asking that bequests be made to St. Gertrude the Great chapel in Ohio implying that that was done at the request of Fr. Collins.
John Sharpe tried repeatedly to contact Bishop Dolan but his calls were not returned. He also tried to contact him through Bishop Sanborn but ultimately received a message from Bishop Sanborn that telling him that Bishop Dolan is "in charge" of the funeral and he should leave it at that. John was derogatorily accused by Fr. Cekada of having "claimed (Fr. Collins') body" as if he were guilty of having abused a corpse. John wanted all to feel comfortable attending Fr. Collins' funeral but at the same time to insure that Fr. Collins last will is carried out to the letter. And you can be sure of this, it will be.
Thus we have the calumny against John Sharpe because he is standing in the way of these posturing hypocrites. Well John is a magnanimous gentleman. He will just turn his back on these insults, but I do not have to. He has been insulted by villains with a lot more finesse than these bunglers and I am more than happy to expose their bungling. I have personally been associated with two occasions, and have direct knowledge of a third with docuмentary proof, in which Fr. McMahon has used grossly unethical means in attempts to gain control of traditional organizations and property to feather his own bed. He drives a wedge between natural ethics and Catholic morality, as if grace and nature were two unrelated categories, believing that his conception of the faith and the nobility of his ends justifies his unethical means. He is an underhanded conniver. What he ends up doing is making a mockery of the Catholic religion.
I did not know Fr. Collins well. He spent Holy Week at Ss. Peter and Paul in York in 2018 and planned to do so again this year until his health failed. With the help of Fr. Collins, John Sharpe and his family, as well as other generous souls, we had the entire Holy Week ceremonies in 2018. We were able to do so again this year but Fr. Collins was sorely missed. Fr. Collins sent a last message to remind the servers not to respond after the readings on Holy Saturday and even entertained the idea of traveling to York for Holy Saturday. He recognized that liturgy is the work of God and attended this work with loving care and attention to detail. He will be missed. In Fr. Collins there was a perfect unity between intention and act in liturgical practice. Everything was done right and done for the greater glory of God. John Sharpe will insure that Fr. Collins' funeral rites are in accord with his last wishes. I will not be able to attend Fr. Collins' funeral but consider it a privilege to have contributed to defraying the expenses, and I have complete confidence that the money contributed will be properly used for that end.
Drew
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I did not know Fr. Collins well. He spent Holy Week at Ss. Peter and Paul in York in 2018 and planned to do so again this year until his health failed. ...... In Fr. Collins there was a perfect unity between intention and act in liturgical practice. Everything was done right and done for the greater glory of God.
Drew
Drew, I agree with you that Father Collins celebrated mass impeccably, but I’m surprised that you were involved with a priest, who held the sedevacantist position. Are you now holding that position yourself?
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John Sharpe tried repeatedly to contact Bishop Dolan but his calls were not returned.
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I still don't understand why John Sharpe tried repeatedly to contact Bishop Dolan. In the earlier post, he was quoted as saying that this communication was to "coordinate and collaborate with [Bishop Dolan]". If that was the case, it sounds like he originally wanted to involve Bishop Dolan in carrying out the funeral. What happened?
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Fr. McMahon has used grossly unethical means in attempts to gain control of traditional organizations and property to feather his own bed. He drives a wedge between natural ethics and Catholic morality, as if grace and nature were two unrelated categories, believing that his conception of the faith and the nobility of his ends justifies his unethical means. He is an underhanded conniver. What he ends up doing is making a mockery of the Catholic religion.
Drew
This is not nice at all......I am done with this whole thing!
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At the time of the death of Father Collins, there were two men (Father McMahon being one) residing in the rectory with Father who left their homes, work and lives in other states to stay with and provide for his every need, day and night for many weeks - cooking, chaueffering, medication administration, daily care routines, assisting with obtaining varying treatment options, constant companionship and more - from the time the tentative diagnosis was provided until the very moment of his passing. They are noticeably not acknowledged in this and I'm concerned quotes regarding Father's "last 96 hours" might give the impression of a solitary journey with the Executor. Hospice was also established under Father's wishes and was actively involved in his care and comfort, as were the efforts of many clergy from across the country and parishioners involved on a myriad of levels on a daily basis. We are grateful that in the last bit of time with Father he was eating well and was in good spirits, and that he was in receipt of the love, concern and prayers of many, including dedicated healthcare professionals, and especially the caretakers who were with him until his last moments.
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Shocking ::) that Bishop Dolan and Cekada are mentioned where money and skullduggery are involved. Right ::)
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Drew, I agree with you that Father Collins celebrated mass impeccably, but I’m surprised that you were involved with a priest, who held the sedevacantist position. Are you now holding that position yourself?
Ss. Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Mission as a matter of its by-laws holds dogma as the proximate rule of faith which is always to be taken in its literal sense without exception. What follows from this is that liturgy is not, and never was, a matter of mere discipline open to the free and independent will of the legislator. It also follows that sedevacantism & sedeprivationism (S&S) are untenable theological positions because they necessarily lead to the overturning of dogma. Both of these last two points are also incorporated in the Mission's by-laws.
That being said, we understand that there are theological and moral problems that every Catholic trying to be faithful to God have to resolve within in their own conscience. S&S are welcome to worship and receive the sacraments at our chapel as long as they recognize the Mission's position and are not trying to undermine it. Some S&S are so determined in their position that they refuse all communion with us. So be it. But many hold it only as a theological possibility and are not settled in this determination.
Fr. Collins knew exactly what our position at Ss. Peter and Paul is. I never spoke to Fr. Collins a word about S&S and he never said a word about it to me. His dear friend, John Sharpe, is not a S&Ser. Fr. Collins was at our chapel during the entire Triduum. He professed the same Creed with us, prayed in communion without us, received the sacraments from Fr. Waters. I found Fr. Collins to be a very kind man, a charitable priest, and devout and faithful Catholic. I regret his passing and have offered many prayers for the blessed repose of his soul. Fr. Waters is currently offering the thirty day Gregorian Masses for his soul.
Drew
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I still don't understand why John Sharpe tried repeatedly to contact Bishop Dolan. In the earlier post, he was quoted as saying that this communication was to "coordinate and collaborate with [Bishop Dolan]". If that was the case, it sounds like he originally wanted to involve Bishop Dolan in carrying out the funeral. What happened?
John Sharpe repeatedly tried to contact Bishop Dolan to iron out any misunderstanding and to insure him that he is welcome to attend Fr. Collins' funeral but not in an officiating capacity. I am not certain, but the impression I have is that this matter was dumped on Bishop Dolan and it is not something he pursued himself.
Drew
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This is not nice at all......I am done with this whole thing!
"Not nice"? It is not intended to be "nice" but accurate and offered as a warning to others. What I have accused Fr. McMahon, I am willing to substantiate with detailed information. In this matter of Fr. Collins, he has again behaved in an unethical manner which has lead to accusations of gross impropriety being made against John Sharpe. It is impossible to defend John Sharpe without identifying who is responsible for this unfortunate matter. But I affirm that this is not an isolated case with Fr. McMahon but is wholly consistent with his past behavior. If he wants to defend himself regarding his actions in York, Baltimore and Boston with which I am personally familiar, and now with Fr. Collins, let him do so.
Drew
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I know John Sharpe personally. He's an honest family man. Also, being that he has to follow the will's directions or face legal charges, this is a further reason to trust his side of the story. It's sad that there has to "sides" in a funeral situation, but that's life sometimes.
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"Not nice"? It is not intended to be "nice" but accurate and offered as a warning to others. What I have accused Fr. McMahon, I am willing to substantiate with detailed information. In this matter of Fr. Collins, he has again behaved in an unethical manner which has lead to accusations of gross impropriety being made against John Sharpe. It is impossible to defend John Sharpe without identifying who is responsible for this unfortunate matter. But I affirm that this is not an isolated case with Fr. McMahon but is wholly consistent with his past behavior. If he wants to defend himself regarding his actions in York, Baltimore and Boston with which I am personally familiar, and now with Fr. Collins, let him do so.
Drew
The same man that Fr Collins, since before his cancer diagnosis, chose to stay with him and take care of him in the rectory and take on his priestly duties at his chapel? The same man that Fr Collins named in his Will to be part of his funeral mass? That same man?
Maybe, just maybe having been with Father Collins 24/7 for weeks before he died, this man knew better what Fr Collins wanted when he died.
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The will says what the will says. If Fr Collins has wanted +Dolan to be in charge, he would’ve put it in there. He didn’t die suddenly; He had plenty of time to change the docuмent. He obviously didn’t.
Maybe, just maybe having been with Father Collins 24/7 for weeks before he died, this man knew better what Fr Collins wanted when he died.
No that’s why a will exists; so that everyone knows what was wanted. And it’s called a “will” for a reason. The dying person is saying “this is what I will to happen.”
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The will says what the will says. If Fr Collins has wanted +Dolan to be in charge, he would’ve put it in there. He didn’t die suddenly; He had plenty of time to change the docuмent. He obviously didn’t.
No that’s why a will exists; so that everyone knows what was wanted. And it’s called a “will” for a reason. The dying person is saying “this is what I will to happen.”
It wouldn’t be that hard for you to google ny estate law. If you did you would find out that verbal changes to the will are legally valid. The only problem with them is that they are hard to prove in court. But if the executor accepted the testimony of the witnesses he would not be fined for failure to carry out his responsibility. Also, in a case where the changes have nothing to do with property (such as the naming of a particular priest or bishop to offer the Requiem Mass) there is a very low probability that anyone will object. But then again we are talking about traditional Catholics who are nothing if not tribal.
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The same man that Fr Collins, since before his cancer diagnosis, chose to stay with him and take care of him in the rectory and take on his priestly duties at his chapel? The same man that Fr Collins named in his Will to be part of his funeral mass? That same man?
Maybe, just maybe having been with Father Collins 24/7 for weeks before he died, this man knew better what Fr Collins wanted when he died.
“Maybe”? You can play that game all day and it is a game for those who have nothing better to do. Maybe, just maybe, Fr. McMahon was there in the same sense that a vulture shows up to comfort the dying. It was not too long ago he did the same thing with Fr. Casimir Peterson in Baltimore to ingratiate himself for the purpose of getting control of the Reparation Society of the Immaculate Heart of Mary which had several million dollars in the bank. In doing this Fr. McMahon gave a false spelling of his name and false background to prevent any discovery of his true identity. When the deception was exposed Fr. Peterson, who had initially been impressed by Fr. McMahon, had the police intervene to prevent any further contact.
Fr. Collins trusted Fr. McMahon and requested in his Will that Fr. McMahon assist Bishop Neville at his funeral Mass, but he did not trust him enough to ask him to be the executor of his Will. That responsibility he entrusted to John Sharpe. Fr. McMahon betrayed Fr. Collins and tried to replace Bishop Neville with Bishop Dolan and, as said before, I do not think that Bishop Dolan instigated this scheme. Furthermore, Fr. McMahon has not made any claim that Fr. Collins made any change to his Will to him privately, nor did Fr. McMahon make any effort to have a codicil drafted by Fr. Collins. What you are speculating on is without any foundation whatsoever.
Now I think you could speculate all you like regarding Fr. McMahon’s motives but what he did does not meet the relatively low standard of common legal or business ethics. Your attempt to excuse Fr. McMahon necessarily requires casting aspersions on John Sharpe. So maybe, just maybe, you should leave well enough alone because the more you cast aspersions on John Sharpe, the more problems buried in Fr. McMahon’s past are going to be dragged up because what is being weighed in the balance is the character of these men.
Drew
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“Maybe”? You can play that game all day and it is a game for those who have nothing better to do. Maybe, just maybe, Fr. McMahon was there in the same sense that a vulture shows up to comfort the dying. It was not too long ago he did the same thing with Fr. Casimir Peterson in Baltimore to ingratiate himself for the purpose of getting control of the Reparation Society of the Immaculate Heart of Mary which had several million dollars in the bank. In doing this Fr. McMahon gave a false spelling of his name and false background to prevent any discovery of his true identity. When the deception was exposed Fr. Peterson, who had initially been impressed by Fr. McMahon, had the police intervene to prevent any further contact.
Fr. Collins trusted Fr. McMahon and requested in his Will that Fr. McMahon assist Bishop Neville at his funeral Mass, but he did not trust him enough to ask him to be the executor of his Will. That responsibility he entrusted to John Sharpe. Fr. McMahon betrayed Fr. Collins and tried to replace Bishop Neville with Bishop Dolan and, as said before, I do not think that Bishop Dolan instigated this scheme. Furthermore, Fr. McMahon has not made any claim that Fr. Collins made any change to his Will to him privately, nor did Fr. McMahon make any effort to have a codicil drafted by Fr. Collins. What you are speculating on is without any foundation whatsoever.
Now I think you could speculate all you like regarding Fr. McMahon’s motives but what he did does not meet the relatively low standard of common legal or business ethics. Your attempt to excuse Fr. McMahon necessarily requires casting aspersions on John Sharpe. So maybe, just maybe, you should leave well enough alone because the more you cast aspersions on John Sharpe, the more problems buried in Fr. McMahon’s past are going to be dragged up because what is being weighed in the balance is the character of these men.
Drew
Drew, because you were so incredibly naive to get conned for years by a fake immoral “priest”, you lost credibility with many people in your ability to judge any man’s character, especially a valid priest. I’d keep my mouth shut, your track record is horrendous.
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Drew, because you were so incredibly naive to get conned for years by a fake immoral “priest”, you lost credibility with many people in your ability to judge any man’s character, especially a valid priest. I’d keep my mouth shut, your track record is horrendous.
Is that your best shot to defend Fr. McMahon?
Drew is also the one that exposed Tetherow https://www.cathinfo.com/sspx-resistance-news/fr-pfeiffer-mentions-a-fr-tetherow-who/
as far as Fr. Roberts, he was a recommendation by Fr. John Fullerton as District Superior of the SSPX who also recommended him to the chapel in Jacksonville Florida.
The SSPX worked with Tetherow and Fr. Roberts to destroy the SS.Peter and Paul mission in York. Their plot failed and in the case of Fr. Roberts, he was shown the door when he gave the SS Peter and Paul Mission Board an ultimatum in the name of Fr. Fullerton of which +Fellay is aware and we have letters to prove it.
Tetherow was invited by the SSPX to assist at +de Galarreta's Confirmations at St. Judes's chapel in Eddystone, PA after he was expelled from the chapel in York (in May,2010) until a newspaper article came out on the York Sunday Paper. After the article we got a call from the SSPX lawyer in KC. We made the lawyer aware of Tetherow's past after that, he told Tetherow to"stay clear" of their chapels.
The SSPX was impressed with Tetherow and believed his calumnies. Many people and clergy, including pioneers in the traditional movement such as Mr. Conde McGuinley disenchanted with the SSPX, believed in Tetherow's "innocence" for a long time and some still do. We can include here Fr. Pfeiffer and Hucko.
Why don't you wise up and do your own internet search on Fr. McMahon? Lest you may be accused of what you are so quick to judge.
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Is that your best shot to defend Fr. McMahon?
Drew is also the one that exposed Tetherow https://www.cathinfo.com/sspx-resistance-news/fr-pfeiffer-mentions-a-fr-tetherow-who/
as far as Fr. Roberts, he was a recommendation by Fr. John Fullerton as District Superior of the SSPX who also recommended him to the chapel in Jacksonville Florida.
The SSPX worked with Tetherow and Fr. Roberts to destroy the SS.Peter and Paul mission in York. Their plot failed and in the case of Fr. Roberts, he was shown the door when he gave the SS Peter and Paul Mission Board an ultimatum in the name of Fr. Fullerton of which +Fellay is aware and we have letters to prove it.
Tetherow was invited by the SSPX to assist at +de Galarreta's Confirmations at St. Judes's chapel in Eddystone, PA after he was expelled from the chapel in York until a newspaper article came out on the York Sunday Paper. After the article we got a call from the SSPX lawyer in KC. We made the lawyer aware of Tetherow's past after that, he told Tetherow to"stay clear" of their chapels.
The SSPX was impressed with Tetherow and believed his calumnies. Many people and clergy, including pioneers in the traditional movement such as Mr. Conde McGuinley disenchanted with the SSPX, believed in his "innocence" for a long time and some still do. We can include here Fr. Pfeiffer and Hucko.
Why don't you wise up and do your own internet search on Fr. McMahon? Lest you may be accused of what you are so quick to judge.
I’ve Known Father McMahon for over 20 years, whatever his short comings may have been, he has more than made satisfaction for past issues. You and your husband have been so burnt in the past, through your own negligence and naivety, that you attack a good and valid priest. Does it make you feel better to attack Father McMahon?
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I retract the last twotwo sentences. It has not been our intention to "attack" Fr. McMahon.
The rest of my post are facts.
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I’ve Known Father McMahon for over 20 years, whatever his short comings may have been, he has more than made satisfaction for past issues. You and your husband have been so burnt in the past, through your own negligence and naivety, that you attack a good and valid priest. Does it make you feel better to attack Father McMahon?
C.S. Lewis discusses the two senses that the word "because" is used. One concerns the “reason for” and the other concerns the “cause of.” You are implying that the criticism of Fr. McMahon is "caused" by previous problems with priests such as Tetherow.
Let me explain something to you. You can legitimately look for a "cause" only after the "reasons" offered have clearly been refuted. You have presented no evidence in defense of Fr. McMahon nor have you refuted anything said against him. Therefore, you accusation that the criticism is "caused" is nothing but a cowardly ad hominem begging of the question.
Now you admit to having known Fr. McMahon for "over twenty years" and you still have not figured anything out. It does not make anyone "feel better" for having revealed serious character deficiencies of Fr. McMahon but there is some satisfaction in defending the reputation of John Sharpe when it is villainously attacked because he performed his duty in spite of Fr. McMahon's unethical attempt to usurp the authority of the executor of Fr. Collins’ Will against the expressed wishes of Fr. Collins.
Lastly, I have not revealed anything more than necessary for the end of defending John Sharpe. You are not doing Fr. McMahon any favors by continuing this discussion because if you insist in setting the character of Fr. McMahon against John Sharpe, Fr. McMahon will sink deeper with every post because there is much more that can be said.
Again, my advice is that you drop this discussion.
Drew
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Ss. Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Mission as a matter of its by-laws holds dogma as the proximate rule of faith ...
:facepalm:
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It wouldn’t be that hard for you to google ny estate law. If you did you would find out that verbal changes to the will are legally valid. The only problem with them is that they are hard to prove in court. But if the executor accepted the testimony of the witnesses he would not be fined for failure to carry out his responsibility. Also, in a case where the changes have nothing to do with property (such as the naming of a particular priest or bishop to offer the Requiem Mass) there is a very low probability that anyone will object. But then again we are talking about traditional Catholics who are nothing if not tribal.
Yes. The key part seems to be "if the executor accepted the testimony of the witnesses". And according to the witnesses, Father Collins wanted Bishop Dolan before he died.
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“Maybe”? You can play that game all day and it is a game for those who have nothing better to do. Maybe, just maybe, Fr. McMahon was there in the same sense that a vulture shows up to comfort the dying. It was not too long ago he did the same thing with Fr. Casimir Peterson in Baltimore to ingratiate himself for the purpose of getting control of the Reparation Society of the Immaculate Heart of Mary which had several million dollars in the bank. In doing this Fr. McMahon gave a false spelling of his name and false background to prevent any discovery of his true identity. When the deception was exposed Fr. Peterson, who had initially been impressed by Fr. McMahon, had the police intervene to prevent any further contact.
Fr. Collins trusted Fr. McMahon and requested in his Will that Fr. McMahon assist Bishop Neville at his funeral Mass, but he did not trust him enough to ask him to be the executor of his Will. That responsibility he entrusted to John Sharpe. Fr. McMahon betrayed Fr. Collins and tried to replace Bishop Neville with Bishop Dolan and, as said before, I do not think that Bishop Dolan instigated this scheme. Furthermore, Fr. McMahon has not made any claim that Fr. Collins made any change to his Will to him privately, nor did Fr. McMahon make any effort to have a codicil drafted by Fr. Collins. What you are speculating on is without any foundation whatsoever.
Now I think you could speculate all you like regarding Fr. McMahon’s motives but what he did does not meet the relatively low standard of common legal or business ethics. Your attempt to excuse Fr. McMahon necessarily requires casting aspersions on John Sharpe. So maybe, just maybe, you should leave well enough alone because the more you cast aspersions on John Sharpe, the more problems buried in Fr. McMahon’s past are going to be dragged up because what is being weighed in the balance is the character of these men.
Drew
Spare me your threats.
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This controversy is caused by a lot of childishness and easily-bruised egos. This is embarrassing. One would hope that priests would be above such things, having benefitted from years of being so close to the Sacraments.
Instead of issuing his petulant letter, Father Cekada could have simply said, "Hey, everyone. I apologize but there has been some confusion regarding the final intentions of Father Collins. While the executor of his will says one thing, some witnesses assert that Father Collins had verbally made some changes to his written will. We're trying to sort this out. In the meantime, continue praying for the repose of Father Collins' soul."
This is just stupid, embarrassing, and entirely unnecessary. Work it out like mature adults.
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Yes. The key part seems to be "if the executor accepted the testimony of the witnesses". And according to the witnesses, Father Collins wanted Bishop Dolan before he died.
If you do not have absolute, 100% certainty about this accusation, then you are spreading rumors and gravely hurting the reputation of John Sharpe. This is serious stuff. You are basically saying that 1) these witnesses all agree that Fr Collins changed his mind, and 2) that John Sharpe lied and is a criminal who is not following the law. Do you understand the gravity of what you are saying?
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If these witnesses are so sure of Fr Collins' wishes, why aren't they the ones sending out emails and social media posts with the facts? Why are they not standing up for the truth? A will is a public docuмent. If they are saying that they are witnesses to a change in the docuмent, then they must stand up PUBLICALLY (with their names out in the open) and testify that Fr Collins changed his mind.
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For you to pass along what you heard, and for the witnesses to remain in the shadows, is not transparent. It is not fair to anyone involved. It is wrong.
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If you do not have absolute, 100% certainty about this accusation, then you are spreading rumors and gravely hurting the reputation of John Sharpe. This is serious stuff. You are basically saying that 1) these witnesses all agree that Fr Collins changed his mind, and 2) that John Sharpe lied and is a criminal who is not following the law. Do you understand the gravity of what you are saying?
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If these witnesses are so sure of Fr Collins' wishes, why aren't they the ones sending out emails and social media posts with the facts? Why are they not standing up for the truth? A will is a public docuмent. If they are saying that they are witnesses to a change in the docuмent, then they must stand up PUBLICALLY (with their names out in the open) and testify that Fr Collins changed his mind.
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For you to pass along what you heard, and for the witnesses to remain in the shadows, is not transparent. It is not fair to anyone involved. It is wrong.
I'm fairly certain this was shared publically right here on CI. Even if one looks at Fr Cekadas public tweet, he is clear that the actions taken were against Fathers wishes just before dying...something to that effect. He never refers to the Will.
So far the focus has been on the Will. Maybe the other side could respond to any verbal requests made by Father.
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This is not a court - there is no jurisdiction nor decision to be handed out on this forum. The need to “present an argument” while character assassination runs rampant is of no charitable value and in no way helps the current situation. Holding exposing information about others in a cease and desist motive when questions are being presented regarding the situation and people are validly trying to understand what is happening on a matter they feel is important comes across as a personal justification for defamatory actions. Please, rather than the current course of action here, please let this be handled with the people that are specifically involved rather than detracting from others, including valued members of the clergy who have given their lives to serve others. The repose of Father Collins soul is where our concentration should be, not squaring off against people that Father genuinely cared for - which most certainly included Father McMahon as well.
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I'm fairly certain this was shared publically right here on CI. Even if one looks at Fr Cekadas public tweet, he is clear that the actions taken were against Fathers wishes just before dying...something to that effect.
No, no, no. Is Fr Cekada one of the ACTUAL witnesses to Fr Collins' change of mind? Is Fr Cekada willing to testify in court, and swear on the Bible, that Fr Collins wanted to verbally change his will? If not, then he's not a witness. He is just spreading rumors, like you.
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A witness to the change of heart had to be told by Fr Collins DIRECTLY. In the same room, on a particular day, at a particular time - and be willing to swear before God and the court, under penalty of criminal perjury and grave sin, that Fr Collins changed his mind. If these witnesses exist, and they aren't openly sharing their names, then I question their stories.
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If you do not have absolute, 100% certainty about this accusation, then you are spreading rumors and gravely hurting the reputation of John Sharpe. This is serious stuff. You are basically saying that 1) these witnesses all agree that Fr Collins changed his mind, and 2) that John Sharpe lied and is a criminal who is not following the law. Do you understand the gravity of what you are saying?
datur tertium ... or it could be that John Sharpe didn't consider the witnesses credible, thought perhaps that the witnesses are making it up or were not in a position to know the truth, or Father Collins verbally told him the contrary shortly before his passing. Perhaps these witnesses heard something a few days or weeks prior to Father Collins' passing, and that these words were contravened by Father Collins. Or perhaps the witnesses misinterpreted something Father Collins said (took it out of context). That's why written records usually trump witness accounts. If Father needed to make a change, the will could have been amended in writing and the change authorized/notarized by a designated representative.
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I don't think that an executor has the ability/duty to judge witness accounts. His obligation is to follow the will. If witnesses want to stand up and challenge the will, they have to be willing to go to court, fill out an avidavit, and testify before a judge that "I, John Doe, testify that the deceased told me x on this date, at this time, etc."
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I agree, a written docuмent takes precedence over verbal instructions simply because of misunderstandings. Still, that does not discount what people think they heard. At this point, we still do not have any named witnesses to Fr Collins' change of heart. Witnesses aren't allowed to stay hidden. If they want to change a public docuмent, they have to be willing to testify publically. Fr Cekada's emails don't count.
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I don't think that an executor has the ability/duty to judge witness accounts. His obligation is to follow the will. If witnesses want to stand up and challenge the will, they have to be willing to go to court, fill out an avidavit, and testify before a judge that "I, John Doe, testify that the deceased told me x on this date, at this time, etc."
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I agree, a written docuмent takes precedence over verbal instructions simply because of misunderstandings. Still, that does not discount what people think they heard. At this point, we still do not have any named witnesses to Fr Collins' change of heart. Witnesses aren't allowed to stay hidden. If they want to change a public docuмent, they have to be willing to testify publically. Fr Cekada's emails don't count.
Agreed. This is precisely why people have written wills in the first place, so the burden of proof is very high to overturn a will. And since time is of the essence (will you leave Father Collins unburied for months?), it's unlikely that the written will would be overturned.
Also, you can have the other side saying that Father Collins was not in his right mind when he "changed" it, that perhaps he was hopped up on pain killers and not thinking straight. So this could go on for months or even years. Now, when it's a question if disposition of assets, it often does, but something like this needs to be decided relatively quickly. So, given the time constraints, a judge would have to issue a temporary restraining order, and he'll undoubtedly go with the written will in the case of any controversy.
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Yes. The key part seems to be "if the executor accepted the testimony of the witnesses". And according to the witnesses, Father Collins wanted Bishop Dolan before he died.
From what I have read on this thread, Fr. Collins was kind and charitable. Why then would he knowingly cause division and strife by changing his mind about who would celebrate his funeral Mass? It doesn't make sense.
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From what I have read on this thread, Fr. Collins was kind and charitable. Why then would he knowingly cause division and strife by changing his mind about who would celebrate his funeral Mass? It doesn't make sense.
Correct. The Saturday before Palm Sunday Fr. Collins went over his Last Will and Testament on the phone with John Sharpe. I believe Fr. McMahon was present for most of the conversation but at one point, Fr. Collins wanted to speak to John Sharpe alone. There should be no misunderstanding.
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This is my last post on this issue.
The attacks on ALL of the people involved need to stop, especially attacks against Father McMahon and the executor. None of us have all of the facts. In Catholic charity everyone is entitled to their good name. The executor has the right to do as he sees fit with implementing the will. I was quite upset that Father McMahon was attacked personally and I defended him accordingly. Drew and Mrs. “Drew”, I apologize for my posts to you, however I was very bothered about what you wrote about Father McMahon, please stop. Folks, we’re all Catholics let’s act like Catholics, God will judge all in the end.
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Is This Father Denis McMahon? Or another Father McMahon?
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This is my last post on this issue.
The attacks on ALL of the people involved need to stop, especially attacks against Father McMahon and the executor. None of us have all of the facts. In Catholic charity everyone is entitled to their good name. The executor has the right to do as he sees fit with implementing the will. I was quite upset that Father McMahon was attacked personally and I defended him accordingly. Drew and Mrs. “Drew”, I apologize for my posts to you, however I was very bothered about what you wrote about Father McMahon, please stop. Folks, we’re all Catholics let’s act like Catholics, God will judge all in the end.
Agreed.
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I forgot to look at the schedule earlier, I've been caring for 6 of our grandchildren since last week but those who are not able to make it at least can be united in their prayers for Fr. Collins' soul. Before anyone ask, there is no clergy listed but there should be pictures on time.
SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, May 7, 2019
5:00 pm (slight possibility of some delay) – Reception of body; procession into church; opening of casket.
5:30 pm – Vespers of Dead (Time may be adjusted to accommodate clergy arrival.)
7:30 pm – Rosary
9:00 pm – End of Wake
Wednesday, May 8, 2019
10:00 am – Matins & Lauds of Dead
11:00 am – Funeral Mass & Burial
Location:
St. Michael’s Chapel
507 Rt. 9W
Glenmont, New York 12077
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Is This Father Denis McMahon? Or another Father McMahon?
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I too am wondering this, so hopefully someone can confirm.
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Here's praying for more humble and charitable traditional Catholic priests like Fr. Collins...
Because of numerous bad experiences, I had given up all trust in traditional Catholic priests until meeting him and his becoming my confessor...
God rest his soul...
He will be sorely missed... 😔
On that note... Fr. Collins really loved, trusted and respected John Sharpe more than almost anyone else I know. I believe this is the reason he made him his executor of his will. Father Collins would not want people fighting about what was to be done for him but he probably forsaw it happening regardless of who was in charge. So, he picked John because he knew John would not waiver in fulfilling his last requests no matter the pressure or detraction of others. God bless John Sharpe andhis family for their loyalty, love and support to Fr. Collins!
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Is there a reason the identity of the celebrant seems to be a closely guarded secret?
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Is there a reason the identity of the celebrant seems to be a closely guarded secret?
Childish cloak-and-dagger games no doubt.
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Is there a reason the identity of the celebrant seems to be a closely guarded secret?
Is there a reason it matters? You go to the funeral mass for Fr Collins, not the celebrant.
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Is there a reason it matters? You go to the funeral mass for Fr Collins, not the celebrant.
Yes. It matters if the priest that says Mass is not a true priest. I won't be there anyway since I live several States away. I'm just wondering why this seems to be a secret.
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Yes. It matters if the priest that says Mass is not a true priest.
Fr Collins requested who would say his funeral mass. Why would he request a non-Trad priest?
I won't be there anyway since I live several States away.
Sounds like you don't have too much of a connection to Fr Collins. If you did, then you'd know someone who is involved in the funeral or who regularly attended one of his masses, who would be able to tell you the details.
For example, I've met Fr Collins a few times. I really liked him. But I don't live near NY or DC, so I don't expect to know the details of what's going on, except what has been graciously posted here. And I don't expect to find out. How would anyone know to contact me? It makes no sense.
I'm just wondering why this seems to be a secret.
Where is the information supposed to be posted? Is there supposed to be a news conference? Why do you expect for John Sharpe, who lives in DC, should know to contact you on where/when the funeral is for Fr Collins? Does he have your phone #? Is he supposed to create a website?
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Yes. It matters if the priest that says Mass is not a true priest. I won't be there anyway since I live several States away. I'm just wondering why this seems to be a secret.
Then, rest assured that Mr. Sharpe, the executor of the will and Fr. Collins trusted and dearest friend, will take care of that. I recommend you practice the virtue of patience and wait a few more hours. Those in charge are busy enough planing, coordinating, traveling with family and making arrangements for the clergy attending the funeral...and mourning!
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Then, rest assured that Mr. Sharpe, the executor of the will and Fr. Collins trusted and dearest friend, will take care of that. I recommend you practice the virtue of patience and wait a few more hours. Those in charge are busy enough planing, coordinating, traveling with family and making arrangements for the clergy attending the funeral...and mourning!
Spare me the platitudes.
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So after all this carrying on did anybody here go to the viewing?
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I just got a call from our priest, Fr. Waters (not a SV) who went to the funeral at the invitation of the Sharpe family and to pay his respects to Fr. Collins whom he met when Fr. Collins came to York, PA last year to sing with the Sharpe family for the Holy Week ceremonies. Fr. Ahern celebrated Mass with two other priests (not Fr. McMahon or Fr. Ringrose) Fr. Waters didn't know their name or the name of the bishop in the front pew (around 50 yrs. old), maybe +Neville? The place was packed.
Maybe someone present will know the names of the other priests and confirm the bishop's name.
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Thank you for the update, Maria. I would suspect there will be some pictures later. Bishop Neville is younger so that may indeed have been him. As far as the other assisting priests, perhaps it was a few of the nine who weren't too busy throwing hissy fits over this whole affair (Frs. Zapp and/or Berry; probably not any of the SSPV fathers).
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Thank you for the update, Maria. I would suspect there will be some pictures later. Bishop Neville is younger so that may indeed have been him. As far as the other assisting priests, perhaps it was a few of the nine who weren't too busy throwing hissy fits over this whole affair (Frs. Zapp and/or Berry; probably not any of the SSPV fathers).
I see that you, too, have joined in the clergy-bashing party on the forum.
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I see that you, too, have joined in the clergy-bashing party on the forum.
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What would be your preferred term-- to "hissy fit"-- to describe SGG having taken their behind-door grievances over the administration of Fr. Collins' estate to the public by using sensational language, impugning the reputations of the organizers, and all but accusing the estate's administrators of fraud? Of turning what was (I would guess) a private miscommunication between conflicting understandings into a nasty public affair that only (and could only have) divided Catholic mourners at a time when they could and should have united over a holy priest's memory?
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I thought "hissy fit" was a pretty mild and decidedly playful description, when justice would probably allow for stronger criticisms.
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What would be your preferred term-- to "hissy fit"-- to describe SGG having taken their behind-door grievances over the administration of Fr. Collins' estate to the public by using sensational language, impugning the reputations of the organizers, and all but accusing the estate's administrators of fraud? Of turning what was (I would guess) a private miscommunication between conflicting understandings into a nasty public affair that only (and could only have) divided Catholic mourners at a time when they could and should have united over a holy priest's memory?
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I thought "hissy fit" was a pretty mild and decidedly playful description, when justice would probably allow for stronger criticisms.
SGG bad!
Fr. Cekada bad!
Bp. Dolan bad!
R&R layman good!
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Thank you for the update, Maria. I would suspect there will be some pictures later. Bishop Neville is younger so that may indeed have been him. As far as the other assisting priests, perhaps it was a few of the nine who weren't too busy throwing hissy fits over this whole affair (Frs. Zapp and/or Berry; probably not any of the SSPV fathers).
Another priest serving (for Fr. Ahern) was Fr. Ercoli. The bishop in the front pew was +Neville. I personally don't know anything about the two. I'm waiting for the third priest's name.
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Thank you for the update, Maria. I would suspect there will be some pictures later. Bishop Neville is younger so that may indeed have been him. As far as the other assisting priests, perhaps it was a few of the nine who weren't too busy throwing hissy fits over this whole affair (Frs. Zapp and/or Berry; probably not any of the SSPV fathers).
So things were starting to calm down on this thread. Not sure why you felt it necessary to stir the pot again.
I had the honor of being present. A very emotional day indeed. The Bishop was Bishop Neville. Fr Ahern was the main celebrant. The other two priests were Fr Ercoli and Fr Letourneau. I am fairly certain all 3 priests are sedevacantist. Of the three, Father Ahern was the only priest named in the Will. Of the others named, Fr Ringrose and Fr Zapp, as far as I know they did not attend.
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Fr McMahon was present as well. John Sharpe did a great job of leading the choir. Fr Collins was laid to rest amidst the shedding of tears. Requiescat in pace, a dear faithful priest.
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Fr McMahon was present as well. John Sharpe did a great job of leading the choir. Fr Collins was laid to rest amidst the shedding of tears. Requiescat in pace, a dear faithful priest.
Fr. Collins used to sing at Requiem Masses with John Sharpe and his four oldest daughters who were very close to him. Must have been very difficult for them to sing for a dear friend. I hope they got enough extra help.
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Fr McMahon was present as well. John Sharpe did a great job of leading the choir. Fr Collins was laid to rest amidst the shedding of tears. Requiescat in pace, a dear faithful priest.
Agreed.
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Just a quick thumbs up for John Sharpe. I've known him for some 20 years. Over the years I've come to regard him as a man of high intelligence, strong conviction (and moral courage), and all around great integrity of sound Catholic character. Fr. Collins was certainly blessed to have him as a close friend and his parents Judith and John, Sr. to have him as a devoted son.