The decision by Bishop Richard Malone of Portland ME to rescind his decision regarding the return to ministry of Fr. Paul Coughlin demonstrates the power of the laity in changing Church policy. The bishop admitted that he is reversing his decision because of “public outcry”. This public outcry included phone calls to the chancery, a Voice of the Faithful (VOTF) press release decrying the decision, multiple complaints filed by angry readers on the web sites of the state’s daily newspapers as well as extensive TV news coverage criticizing the decision. “Catholics throughout the country should take note that they can have power to change Church decisions if only they join together and exercise it”, said Mary Pat Fox, president of VOTF.

VOTF would also like to commend Bishop Malone for his decision. This action protects children and demonstrates that Bishop Malone can learn from his mistakes.