The Churches: Beef vs. Braxton

Thursday, June 16, 2005

Beef vs. Braxton

What’s the beef against Bishop Ed Braxton in Belleville? Nearest one can tell from news accounts is (a) the money he wants to spend on his house and (b) a lack of customary consultation before he was appointed, two months after his predecessor, Bp. Wilton Gregory, left for Atlanta. This from Belleville’s News-Democrat has it clear enough:

Controversy over Braxton's appointment to replace Wilton Gregory erupted in April when members of the Fellowship of Southern Illinois Laity staged a protest to express their opposition to his planned renovations of the bishop's residence.
Members of the group also have said Braxton was appointed without the usual consultation with the Cardinal and local priests.

News-D quotes Anne Harter, speaking for the Fellowship of Southern Illinois Laity.

Harter said they will keep a close eye on Braxton, particularly on the money he spends renovating his home. [Vicar General Monsignor James] Margason approved $25,000 from the diocese coffers for repairs.
Margason has said Braxton told him donations from friends would pay for cosmetic improvements to the two-story brick house on Gass Avenue.
"I'm not saying he shouldn't have a nice place to live, but it seems a little excessive to me," said Harter, who won't attend the [June 22] installation. "We're going to keep digging (to see) where the money comes from and if it comes out of this diocese people are going to be upset."

Following the money will be that Catholic’s avocation.