A letter to Fr. Dougherty, Superior of Maryknoll, "Do not abandon your brother, Fr. Roy Bourgeois"

Dear Fr. Dougherty, I am sad and disappointed with the news that you are caving in and not supporting your brother Fr. Roy when he needs the support of his brothers. In the past I have had great respect and admiration for Maryknoll and the great missionary work they have always done to bring the Gospel message of peace and love to the poor and disenfranchised through out the world particularly in South America. I have relatives who belong to Maryknoll and know a number of Franciscans who worked with Maryknoll in South America. There was always a strong bond between both the men and women who worked together to serve the poor. He was there for Sr. Maura Clark and the other women raped and murdered serving the poor. I am sure she would be here for him if she had lived. Fr. Roy has devoted his life to the message of the Gospel. He has been a man for peace and justice. He has been against unjust wars. He served his country in Vietnam and was wounded for it. He protested against war and served time in prison for his support following his conscience. We both know that women have long been treated as second class citizens by a male dominated church. Now when he stands up for equality for women instead of supporting him you are throwing him out of Maryknoll. Even if you don't agree with his opinion you should still support your brother. Is that what Jesus would do? The men ran from Jesus when he needed them. The women stood by Him. Fr. Roy is doing no less than than Jesus. Maryknoll is about to celebrate 100 years of service. I hope and pray that the supporters of Maryknoll don't show up for any of your celebrations and support Fr. Roy a true man of the Maryknoll man and follower of Jesus. Shame on you and the other men of Maryknoll who are cowering when you should be living up to your mission. Sincerely, Bill Taylor