FiF NA Council Statement on Deposition of Fr Geromel

August 4, 2005

We deplore the unjust and improper actions of the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Eastern Michigan, the Rt. Rev’d Edwin Leidel, and the diocesan Standing Committee, in deposing The Rev’d Eugene Geromel, of Swartz Creek, Michigan, a priest canonically resident in the bishop’s diocese. Bishop Leidel has wrongly charged Father Geromel under Canon IV.10 that he has abandoned the communion of the Episcopal Church. The misuse of this Canon is an affront to all those who hold to the Doctrine, Discipline, and Worship of this Church.

Fr Gene Geromel SSC

As a faithful priest, Father Geromel has repeatedly demonstrated his adherence to the Biblical and Apostolic Faith of the undivided church, as received and taught by the Anglican Communion. He has worked to maintain the bonds of mutual affection, and in return has been summarily dismissed. In contrast to Father Geromel’s efforts to pursue the highest level of unity in his relationship to the Anglican Communion, Bishop Leidel has distanced himself from the worldwide Communion by endorsing aberrant doctrine and practice.

Forward in Faith North America regards Father Geromel as priest in good standing and faithful to the Doctrine, Discipline, and Worship of the Anglican Communion. We encourage the laity and clergy of the Diocese of Eastern Michigan to remain in communion with Father Geromel. We call on the Bishops of the Episcopal Church USA to declare this deposition null and void, to license Father Geromel to officiate in their dioceses, and to take action against Bishop Leidel and the diocesan Standing Committee for their abuse of power.

We are encouraged that Father Geromel has filed complaint against Bishop Leidel with the Anglican Primates’ Panel of Reference. We offer Father Geromel our support and our prayers during this time of persecution.

For more information, please contact:

The Rev’d Keith Acker

Communications Director

Forward In Faith North America

“Upholding the Faith and Order of the Undivided Church”