Bishop Barber's letter to St. Isidore parishioners

Dear St. Isidore Parishioners,

This past week through media reports and an announcement from the Diocese of San Diego, the Diocese of Oakland became aware that Father Patrick Foley was removed from priestly ministry due to inappropriate behavior with children. It also was brought to my attention that Father Foley celebrated Mass and other sacraments at St. Isidore. The Diocese of Oakland has no record of a request from St. Isidore Parish for a "letter of suitability for ministry" nor was one ever issued by the Diocese of Oakland for Father Foley. This is a violation of the National Protocols for the Catholic Church in the United States.

I have ordered an investigation of how this violation could have taken place, so that measures can be taken to prevent it in the future. When this investigation is complete, I will communicate the results to the parishioners of St. Isidore. During the time of this investigation, Father Moran has been placed on administrative leave from the parish so that the investigation can proceed in a totally independent manner.

Father Moran will not be residing in the rectory, he will not be celebrating the sacraments at St. Isidore and has agreed to refrain from any public comment on this matter pending the conclusion of the investigation. Father Moran remains a priest of the Diocese and is able to celebrate the sacraments elsewhere.

During this investigation, I have appointed Father Paul Schmidt as temporary administrator of the parish. He will have all the necessary authority to provide the continued necessary ministry and smooth running of the parish.

We are committed to a safe environment for all. As of today, we are not aware of any children or vulnerable adults being harmed in any way by Father Foley. If anyone is aware of any inappropriate behavior toward children or vulnerable adults by Father Foley or by anyone else, please contact the local police department.

I intend for this investigation to be completed in as timely a manner as possible. As your bishop, I apologize for the scandal this unauthorized invitation of a sanctioned priest has caused you, the good people of St. Isidore's parish. I will do everything in my power to make sure it never happens again

Yours sincerely in Christ,

The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J.

Bishop of Oakland