[Original story is here: Controversy erupts over HLI’s former chief priest]

By Roger Bianchini
Warren County Report

Approximately eight hours after Father Euteneuer’s statement was posted on its website, Life Site News added “with permission” the first official statement from Bishop Gerald Barbarito on Father Euteneuer’s status. It is an internal memo from the bishop to “all the priests of the Diocese of Palm Beach.” That memo posted at 5:51 p.m., Feb. 1, states in its entirety:

“Due to the publicity being given to the situation of Father Thomas Euteneuer, I now feel it is not only fair but necessary to inform the priests of the Diocese of appropriate information in his regard.

“Father Euteneuer has been undergoing intensive evaluation and counseling to address admitted inappropriate crossing of adult heterosexual boundaries on the occasion of carrying out his priestly ministry. Immediate action was taken to deal with this matter and to restrict his ministry as soon as it was brought to the attention of the Diocese. Father Euteneuer has cooperated in the process while at the same time expressing contrition for his conduct and the harm it has caused. No determination has yet been made as to when and under what circumstances he may return to ministry.

“While committed to Father Euteneuer’s healing, I truly regret and apologize for the hurt and harm which his actions have caused. Please pray for the healing needed as a result of these actions as well as for Father Euteneuer himself. Please also pray that this matter will not adversely affect the good which Father Euteneuer’s ministry for respect for life, especially on behalf of the unborn, has accomplished.

“Let us continue to pray for and support each other.”

[Video of the Euteneuer/Sean Hannity exchange and discussion in our forum: MyFrontRoyal.com]