To Members of the SJA Parish, School & General Public,

Summary

The Catholic Diocese of Richmond, as determined by Bishop Barry Knestout, has removed Fr. Rob Cole for a temporary period from his role as pastor and thus he can not associate with the parish community in that role. An investigation is being conducted by the Diocese regarding the proper use of safe environment training. Fr. Rob's status as permanent pastor of St. John The Apostle has not been Determined. Those who would like to voice support for his character and pastoral leadership are strongly urged to read on for ways to make an impact.

Day of Fasting for Fr. Rob

Please join us in solidarity as we offer up a day of fasting this Wednesday MAy 22, 2024. PLease offer up intentions for the restoration of Fr. rob back to his proper position as priest of St. John the Apostle parish as well as for the BLessed Mother to comfort him in this time of affliction.

"And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it (the demon) came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, 'He is Dead'. But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, 'Why could we not cast it out?' And he said to them, 'This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.'" -Mark 9:26-29

What You Can Do

If you are looking for a way to take action you have two options:

1. Send Fr. Rob Letters in support

Fr. Rob is truly hurting emotionally and spiritually from being removed as the SJA Parish priest. as the shepherd of our flock, this is not only what Fr. Rob does, but who He is. Fr. Rob is a good Shepherd and we need to make sure he knows this now more than ever.

Please write hard copy letters voicing your love for Fr. Rob and drop them off at the parish office. Aside from prayer and Fasting, This is the next most important action.

2. Send Email/Letters to Bishop Barry Knestout

Please contact Bishop Knestout speaking in support of Fr. Rob and to his exceptional character as a priest and shepherd of the flock under his care.

This is NOT a time to be negative toward the Bishop. Please refrain from writing letters or emails that have angry or negative sentiments since this will not work in Fr. Rob's favor.

Although we do not agree with the current state of affairs, we still need to treat the bishop with love and respect. Keep the focus of your letter on Fr. Rob and all the things you love and respect about him.

3. Send Email/Letters to Diocesan Investigating Attorney - Lawrence Woodward Jr.

As with the letter to the Bishop, we also need to reach out to the diocesan investigating attorney to promote the character of Fr. Rob.

Where To Write Letters

Please write letters of support & affirmation for fr. rob to:

Richmond Diocese Office - Bishop Barry Knestout

Email: bishop@richmonddiocese.org

US Mail:

Bishop Barry Knestout

7800 Carousel Lane

Richmond, VA 23294-4201

Diocesan Investigating Attorney - Lawrence Woodward Jr., Attorney-At-Law

Email: lwoodward@srgslaw.com

US Mail:

Mr. Lawrence Woodward Jr., Attorney-At-Law

317 30th Street

Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Sign Your Name in Support of Fr. Rob

Weekly Adoration

For the duration of Fr. Rob's abscence as the SJA parish priest, the last hour of our weekly adoration of the Blessed Sacrament (6:00pm to 6:45pm) will be dedicated to the healing of our parish and all affected. Only God can provide the grace needed for the miracles we pray for.

"From the Eucharist comes strength to live the Christian life and zeal to share that life with others."

- Pope John Paul II

"The Eucharist bathes the tormented soul in light and love. Then the soul appreciates these words, 'Come all you who are sick, I will restore your health.'"

- St. Bernadette Soubirous