Friday, December 17, 2010
Oh God please no....
Words fail me on what to make of the Courier's front page of the Tonbridge edition. Allegations about Monsignor Michael Smith, parish priest of Corpus Christi catholic church in Tonbridge, have led to his arrest for allegedly sexually assaulting a child. Nothing has been proven so we can't go condemning the man and I, for one, sincerely hope they are not true for the sake of the community. If you can't trust the people who are placed in influential positions to help guide us through our lives then who can you trust?...
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361 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 361 of 361Diocesan priests, ( under the direct jurisdiction of a local bishop), may keep what they earn, what they inherit, and what they receive as gifts.
Everything they do must be approved of. And all money that goes to their Parish does not belong to the Priest. Priests usually do not receive money individually from others until they retire. If a Priest needs money he usually gets it from the diocese. Unless he had money sitting in a bank account that he received before he became a Priest that keeps gaining interest. Now a days more & more Priests are entering the Priesthood later in their lives when they have already made money in the secular world. Individual property given to Priests usually comes from relatives who are wealthy. A Church or Chapel can not be personal property unless the Church sells it. Also priests must live where they work which is usually at their parish & they very rarely get to go on holiday so they usually don't get homes until they retire if they can afford it or have those that pay for it. Most either end up living on Church property or in a retirement home or small apartment when they retire.
Can we expect another posting to Craggy Island?
Tonbridge person.
As secular priests do not take a vow of poverty, and if a priest is bequeathed a property by a parishioner then the property becomes his, it does not become the property of the diocese, unless it was specifically bequeathed to the diocese.
We are new to this Parish and we are very shocked at the comments we are reading on this blog. I hope that the court case is very soon so that we can put this behind us and everyone can get on with their lives.
Justice will prevail. Please God we will get a permanent Priest as nice as Father Tom! We hope that some of the horrible things that we have read are exagerated---all so awful! I can't stop thinking about it.
I have just looked at all those comments and i totally agree with the person who left his comment on the 2nd of feb.I beleive father michael is innocent,and will look forward to welcome him back.for all those people who despise him so much,i will ask did you really try to get to know him over the years ?
I have known him since father hobbs left,and i know he is a good man.
there are disgusting,vile men in this life but he is not one of them ! just be patient and the truth will be revealed.you seem to forget that evil is very clever and having read those comments he is winning over some grounds ! but i have faith that only GOD will prevail !
Its horrible to think that we cant fully trust people these days but it's a fact. We must not only look out for our own but for anyone else too.Where minors are left in the trust of others they should be cared for as if Jesus is watching.That goes for church and school.For some, school is their only safe haven and these children will be the ones with the most problems-they will need kindness. At church, ALL who attend are getting closer to God.
To Regine
I applaud your loyalty but you like many parishioners at CC will be totally shocked by the truth that will become apparent soon - you may think you know FM rather well but wait and see .......
so how comes if he owns a property the church are having to pay for him to go into hiding?
If it is true and Fr. michael has been bailed by the church, then conditions about where he is to reside etc will have been stipulated.
I agree with the last post. Schools should try and educate and nurture all. And so should the church. I dont really understand why anybody would think anything else.
hmm!
Freedom of speech is not a sin, and the church shouldn't threaten us by saying we are committing a sin when we speak the truth and are voicing our concerns. Isn't the church commitment the biggest sin by having kept FM to serve us in the parish, knowing what he was like and what he was up to they allowed put us all at risk. Thats the biggest sin. How did FM get this property and keep it is also a sin, and its call greed and to make money from it is also a sin. As a committed christian and priest married into the catholic faith, how dare he be allowed to live two lives, one of a pretentious priest and one of a lay person who loved holidaying and having a life of leisure and then for a few months he did a few hours of work!
Like many others, I can across this blog site rather by accident. However, having invested considerable time and emotion in reading through all the previous comments, I couldn't pass without adding a thought or two of my own:
Clearly, something terrible has happened here. Either a terrible and harmful thing has occurred to a young person - or - a terrible and harmful accusation has been made falsely.
I do not know for certain, unlike so many others it seems, of Fr Michael's guilt or innocence; I wholeheartedly hope that he's innocent of what he's accused of. But that outcome would only mean that there are individuals who are capable of much cruelty in making false accusations. I'm not so naive or blinkered to believe that neither happens in the real world so I'll just wait to see the outcome of the investigation. It would be so nice if others could do the same rather than the unrelenting character assassination I've seen here.
When I first heard about this incident during mass (and yes, I am a regular parishioner of Corpus Christi) my prayers went out to Fr Michael and his mother as well as the young person and their family. To me, all the parties were worthy of my thoughts and prayers. Now it seems as though I need to add the authors of the nasty, venomous and spiteful comments in my prayers too.
Child abuse is a terrible thing but everyone here seems to "know" that this incident involves sexual abuse - I've not seen that confirmed anywhere (apart from the inflammatory Mail On Sunday and we all know they wouldn't ever consider printing anything other than the truth). I'll await the outcome of the investigation to know more.
To all the contributors above who "know" that Fr Michael is guilty as charged, have "evidence" of his previous misdemeanours and who have reported their knowledge and have previously offered their evidence to the authorities (the Police, the Diocese hierarchy, child welfare organisations, etc) then I thank you for your concientiousness and high regard for community welfare. To those who haven't reported such knowledge or evidence, do you not now feel some element of shame or guilt? Or are you all gloating "I told you so". There's those amongst the contributors who have openly attacked the staff and assistants of Fr Michael whom, they believe, must have known what was going on. Nobody seems to have vented similar anger at those contributors who "know" of Fr Michael's "true character" and did nothing. I fail to see the difference.
I'm sorry that there are so many negative comments and opinions about Fr Michael. He's personally helped me in a number of ways and I have nothing but gratitude for his support and understanding in the things I've had reason to relate to him. Even if, Heaven forbid, he is guilt as charged, please remember that he has still done a great deal of good for the community and parishioners. I know that this belief will be strongly denied by many bloggers and I have no doubt that my comments will be derided and criticised. No doubt I'll be accused of being one of his "cronies" or part of the "CC clique"; I'm neither, I'm afraid, simply a Christian and parishioner.
So, there's those amongst you who didn't like Fr Michael's attitude or personality and that's a pity in such a pivotal figure within the community. However, you seem to fail to appreciate that nobody can please all of the people all of the time. To expect Fr Michael to do so would be to expect him to perform a super-human achievement. Can you honestly say that you're universally liked, befriended and fully appreciated by all you meet?
So please, no more hatred and poison. Let's await the outcome of the investigation with patience and hope.
David S
I write simply to add my thoughts, having invested a considerable amount of time and emotion in reading all the previous submissions regarding the allegations made against Fr Michael.
Quite clearly, something terrible has happened and there seems to be only one of two events which could actually have occurred: either Fr Michael has committed a terrible and harmful act with a young person - or - a young person has made a terrible and harmful accusation of Fr Michael.
I have no certainty of Fr Michael's guilt or innocence, unlike many bloggers who have contributed so far, but I sincerely believe and wholeheartedly hope and pray that the accusations are false. But for this eventuality to be true, it means that there's someone who could readily make such a damaging and career-ruining accusation. Either way, it's a lose:lose situation.
When I first heard of the situation during mass last year (yes, I am part of Corpus Christi's congregation, although by admitting so it seems that any comments I make will be wholly disregarded by some of you), my thoughts and prayers went out to Fr Michael, his elderly mother, the young person and their family. Whatever the truth, it appeared to me that all parties, the innocent, the guilty and those others caught up in something wholly out of their control, needed and deserved our thoughts and prayers. Now it seems I have to add to that list the authors of the nasty, spiteful character assassinations that have appeared so readily and frequently within this extended blog.
It is heartwarming to see there have been a few messages requesting Christian charity, forgiveness and a sense of common decency but also so utterly depressing to see that so many people have taken this unfortunate opportunity to air publicly, and anonymously, their thoughts not only of Fr Michael but also of his staff and assistants, together with St Margaret Clitherow's school, as an entity, and the school's staff!
Nobody deserves this knee-jerk offensive caterwauling. Please think: if you were in a similar position, would you prefer for due justice to be done and for a fair a reasonable judgement to be handed down or, alternatively, exoneration to be received - or - would you prefer to be tried and sentenced by the anonymous multitude bandying about unproven facts and hearsay in their venomous diatribe?
The attacks on Fr Michael's assistants and secretary are wholly unjustified. No doubt I'll be labelled by some of you as one of the Corpus Christi "cronies" or a member of the "clique". I'm neither. Apologies if that spoils your argument, I'm simply a Christian and member of the CC congregation, seeking truth.
Comments and unfounded accusations have rained down on CC's office staff and secretary stating that they undoubtedly knew and were covering up for Fr Michael. How one reaches such a position of belief I have no idea, other than from personal involvement. Other contributors state that they know "for certain" or "have proof" of Fr Michael's past deeds. Well, to those who have such knowledge, certainty or proof and who have previously advised the relevant authorities (Police, Diocesan hierarchy, children's welfare charities, etc) then I send out a hearty thank you for your community spirit. To anyone who had such knowledge and didn't report any incident, then surely you must now feel some semblance of shame? How are you any different from the office staff or secretary who have been so lambasted? You seem merely to be revelling in your unhelpful "I told you so" attitude.
cont...
continued from previously...
So it seems that Fr Michael has managed to alienate a number of you, which is awfully sad considering his position as a parish priest. However, nobody can please all of the people all of the time. It would be an impossibly onerous task for him to have done so - a superhuman task, in fact. He was only human, how unfortunate for those of you who expected him to have achieved more. How many of you can honestly say that they are much loved, liked even, or completely understood and appreciated by everyone they meet during their daily life?
From a personal point of view, I have been extremely thankful for Fr Michael's advice and support during those times when I've sought guidance, comfort, strength and understanding from him, in particular, and the Catholic church generally. Even if, Heaven forbid, the accusations are proven to be true, this cannot take away from the enormous amount of good he has done during his 19 years in Tonbridge. Those who maybe feel they have been personally slighted by him seem to have ignored all his good deeds (conveniently).To conclude: I don't know what has happened and as such I cannot know the truth at this time. I think I'll wait on the outcome of the investigations to make my decision.
Perhaps more of you would be wise (and a little more Christian-like) to do the same.
David S
Apologies. I'm new to blogging and hadn't realised there would be a moderating delay when posting a comment, hence my second attempt. The comments are basically the same, you needn't read them both!
Sorry, once again.
David S - a well written piece, but alas it is not justified that you state FM did so much for the church and he was a one man band, indeed he appeared to have so much time he went for months on holiday and had the money to do so and to say he was looking forward to the months passing by to enjoy another was indeed a strange thing in his position. If he assisted you there must have been something very special about you as a person, and one of a few he helped and fM must have received your gratification in some form indeed? FM didn't do anything for nothing. FM didn't help ALL his parishioners which is a shame but had the time to have a day off and enjoy his free time lounging about leaving his inner circle to do most of the work. In terms of criticizing his secretary and office staff, one cannot work so closely and not have known or have indeed been a part of what FM was doing. Why did the bishop place FM in Ton bridge in the first place knowing that he was a dodgy person, with a tainted history, maybe he thought he would fit in with the rest of the dodgy people. When a bishop preaches to us that we are committing a sin by making false accusations, he has himself committed the biggest sin by standing by FM and putting in our parish for 19years we have suffered and being put at risk!
I have just been directed to this blog and am truely shocked at some people's views, not only about FM but also about the school and the staff/children in it. It is such a shame to hear the catholic community condemning everyone who lies outside of their faith and beliefs - it just confirms the majority view in society that those who support the catholic faith are narrow minded, and completely out of touch with modern society. It would also appear that the catholic community are completely unable to be supportive and welcoming to those in need of help - rather they are quick to judge and make decisions based on heresay rather than fact and knowledge. You should all be ashamed of yourselves. And as for the comment posted on the 1 feb - perhaps the parent concerned does not yet understand that the majority of the schools funding comes from the state and not the church - that the school makes heavy use of state provisions such as speech and language/ educational psychologists/specialist teachers. You would not have a catholic school if it were not for non-catholic state funding. Perhaps you are the parent of the children at the school who call non-catholic children at the school witches and heretics? Honestly, no wonder everyone hates the catholic faith - just as one begins to think that there is something special about having such a faith, people like these on the blog come out of the woodwork, and confirm that the community remains as narrow-minded, unchristian and hypocritical as it has always been.
TO DAVID S
AGREE WITH YOU 100% !!
glad to see there is at least a true christian in my church !!
regine
The Conspiracy
There has been a nationwide pattern observed over the last 35
years. Bishops know of ongoing sexual misconduct by Catholic priests and bishops co-operate to keep such misconduct from becoming public knowledge. The following are uniform practices: failing to investigate indications
of any sexual misconduct, even with children; failing to supervise properly the
cleric in his assignment, failing to ensure that the cleric is prosecuted for misconduct with children. Once an incident occurs, energy and policies at the
highest levels of Church authority have been directed to damage control,avoidance of scandal at all costs, and efforts to placate and manipulate victims and families. The latter often involves intimidation, misleading information, and even fraudulent means, if necessary. Policy also involves maintaining the priest in
a new assignment without proper supervision and without informing the congregation where the abusive behaviour usually continues.
Catholic is a title often clipped to custom and teachings but on this blog it seems to be used as a word to explain the awful thoughts of some of these writers. Being Catholic is to try and be like Jesus and many so called catholics here are struggling! As with every group-don't tar us all with the same brush!
Here's the bottom line for anyone who just won't even consider the ugly prospect: we can either err in the direction of fostering a climate that protects huge numbers of vulnerable, innocent kids, or that protects a much smaller number of powerful grown ups. For decades, we've done the latter, with obviously devastating results. It's time the balance shift toward the most precious and fragile. And while it's of course very hard for a wrong-accused adult to repair his or her reputation, it's infinitely harder for sexually abused children to repair their emotional, psychological, and spiritual lives.
The blogger of Feb 20th 12.58 who states they have been directed to this site, by coincidence, or is this person a parent of a child in the catholic school who is bullied? If the catholic school makes so much use of the state funding for special needs as you state where is your lack of understanding of voluntary aided school come into it? You have totally lost the plot in your understanding of how our catholic schools are run. The school has possibly had to rely so heavily on state funding due to the intake of unsupported children from homes where the parents haven't bothered to educate their children relying on our good catholic schools to pick up the pieces!!! Its a disgrace that non catholic children are benefiting from our catholic school's and bringing disrupt to the school's good name and use of our 'voluntary aided funds'. Ask yourself HOW DID THESE NON CATHOLIC KIDS EVEN GAIN ENTRANCE TO THE SCHOOL IN THE FIRST PLACE? Well, look at the attendance of parents just before their forms have to be signed before the deadline of the school intake! We never see these parents again neither the kids and they never put a penny into the church yet are happy to benefit from our catholic schools.
Ignorance is bliss but you all know how to fiddle the system and that sure isn't ignorance. Support your kids at home and we won't need state funding for behavior issues or special needs. We could put the put the money to better use. Take responsibility for your children don't leave it to our good catholic schools!!! And put your money where your mouth is.
To Anonymous (Feb 18, 8:55pm),
I'm sorry but there's too many points within your message that I feel require addressing. Taking these in order:
1. "... he went for months on holiday..."
By this, I presume you refer to his taking the month of August off each year? Hardly "months", plural. I know of no other job where an individual does not take time off for rest and relaxation or recuperation (even the Queen has Balmoral). Your argument may be that being a priest is a calling and isn't like any other job but I would imagine even someone with a calling would need or benefit from time off occasionally, even if it be for personal or religious reflection. I cannot condemn FM for taking time away from the "office" in this way.
2. "If he assisted you there must have been something very special about you..."
Not sure if this is sarcasm or not (it's a little difficult to tell in a blog) however, I'm sorry to dampen your argument but no, there's nothing special, I am merely an ordinary, nondescript, run-of-the-mill parishioner. FM actively sought me out when he was concerned about me and he freely gave of his time, advice and encouragement. I'm presuming there are many other parishioners whom he has also assisted in similar ways so I can appreciate that by doing so, in addition to all his other responsibilities, he must have been continually busy.
3. "FM must have received your gratification in some form..."
Not quite sure what you are implying but yes, gratification was offered in the form of a note sent expressing my grateful appreciation of his concern and assistance. My gratification to FM was in no way different to my gratification expressed to anyone else who offers me similar friendship and support.
4. "...he had the time to have a day off..."
Similarly to the comments point 1 above, by this I am presuming you mean the Wednesday afternoons? If FM's role was as busy as I believe it was then again, I cannot condemn him for taking a break. As you seem to know that FM was far from busy, I can appreciate your views may differ from mine.
cont...
continued from above…
5. "...one cannot work so closely and not have known or indeed have been a part of what FM was doing".
This is the most important and, to me, by far the most offensive comment made within your posting. I have tried to see your point of view and have attempted to find the reasoning and sequencing which would lead you to have reached such a conclusion. I have failed utterly.
Please ask yourself: Did the wife and remaining children of Josef Fritzl know of his actions in the Amstetten family home? I believe not. I hope that you believe not, also. By way of this example, surely you can see that working or living in close proximity with someone does not ensure you know everything there is to know about them. Do you know of all the actions, desires or perversions (if any) of everyone with whom you work, live or play? I can honestly say that I do not. It is entirely reasonable to presume that if (and I stress, IF) anything untoward were going on it would not be widely known.
To assert, without a shred of proof, that FM's secretary and office staff are implicit in any wrongdoing is wholly indefensible, offensive and morally wrong.
Finally, you criticise the bishop, accuse FM of being "a dodgy person with a tainted history" and label the CC congregation as "dodgy" also. I do not know of FM's history prior to his arrival at CC, other than what he has told me. In contrast it seems that you do know or you're happy to accept, without challenge, what other parishioners or bloggers on this site are happy to spread. Before regurgitating the gossip of others, isn’t it our moral duty to discern the facts and omit the hearsay?
It's sadly depressing that there isn't even a scintilla of appreciation of what MF actually did for the parish and parishioners (or at least some of them) in so many of the comments here.
FM has my appreciation. And, as I said in a previous posting, he's still in my prayers, along with his mother, the young person and the young person's family. And the other contributors to this site.
I'm still awaiting the outcome of the investigation.
David S
It is sad to read the views of people on this blog. Not all catholic schools and parishes are like Tonbridge. CC and SMC have used faith as power and in doing so have caused lots of pain to people. FM run his parish like a military operation without love and care for his flock. The school when it suits promote strict guidelines on intake, but when SMC recommend non-Catholic students to St. Greg’s they forget these guide lines. True Catholics do not care of other student’s denomination; it’s discussed on this blog because of the hypocrisy at church and school. FM couldn’t care less about any issues raised at the school. Parents asked him to change the RE program when John Lennon was up for discussion year after year. It was parent power that caused the change not the devout Priest. The school is more interested in chasing awards than caring for students. How many disgruntled parents have received the letter ‘no child is disadvantage here’. FM had to go and it is truly sad it has taken so long to get rid of him. The damage he has caused, without taking into account the reason for his removal, is immeasurable.
I must let every non catholic person reading this blog that 'CATHOLICS'do not hold these views.Somebody on this blog site does but they do not represent catholic people.
I'm ashamed to be grouped with such bigoted,hypocritical behaviour.
I have never been in assosciation with any catholics who share these facist views and I would steer well clear of anyone like it!!
Remember true catholics want to walk along side Jesus and if they don't there's no reason why any person- catholic or otherwise-Christian,Muslim,Buddhist,etc should not point that out!!
Being Catholic is not a permit ,it's a way of life and from what I've read SMC does not live by its faith.
Don't tell me disgruntled parents get a 'round robin' letter when approaching the school with concerns over their child. That is appalling!!!!
Where's the catholic care in that!
To Feb22nd 11.15 from a catholic.
I hope one day with some prayer and meditation that you will realise what you are missing.
Catholic faith is not a badge!
Even if being catholic were something to be proud of-it most certainly is not to be used to undermine!!
If I understand correctly; the initial reference to catholic and non catholics was used to portray the fact that some types of students are welcome and advantaged whereas others are not.
Conveniently these less attractive students can be categorised by faith whilst remaining politically correct.
The truth of the matter is that some kids are just not going to impress so they are not wanted.How Sad Is That at Primary level.
Why not just become an independant school and be done with it.At least then its all above board!!
thankfully some of the catholic community appear to be redeeming the terrible views and opinions that have been voiced on this blog
as a non catholic parent of several children in the school, one of whom has a significant level of behavioural need, I have to say that whilst there have been times that I have felt let down by SMC that more reflects the difficulties faced by any mainstream state school in managing and dealing with what can be significant and devestating behavioural and learning needs. I have on the whole experienced a high level of support from all staff at the school, for which I remain grateful. I am positive that the issue re whether my children are catholic or not does not matter to the majority of the staff. Some parents clearly have issues however, and all I can say is what a shame. We sent our children there on the advice of the paedritrician, who suggested that is was a really good school for supporting special needs. We did not go to church to get our children in - the school just happened to have places. And what parent with a child who presents with difficulties would not seek the best possible school for their child? Rather than thinking how awful it is for the school to have to support such children, would it not be better to celebrate the fact that the environment is caring enough, possibly due to the fact that it is a faith school, to help those in need of real assistance.
well said!5.46.
also,personally i'm pleased that you have demonstrated how non catholics are welcomed into the school.
it does raise the question though why it is alright for some and not for others-but i'm glad you obtained what you were seeking.
do you wonder why some people are not permitted entrance if they are not catholic?
it does seem to ring bells about what is the real reason why children are not accepted.
i wonder what would happen if there were a group of irish catholic travellers settling in the trench road area?
sometimes what goes around comes around?!
I so agree with a previous blogger that faith has been used as power in Tonbridge. Is that linked to the priest?
I'm sure a holy priest would filter holy thoughts into all of his parish including the teachers.
The teachers are not bad but some have lost their way and are busy pleasing the wrong people.
Its not too late...there's a new priest with the true message of God.
I think the issue about whether or not non-catholic children are accepted at the school depends on whether or not they have spaces. If they have spaces, they will take anyone who wishes to go in. Now the school has become outstanding, clearly many people wish their children to go there, and there is more competition for places. The admissions policy of the school (and I dont think this is determined by the headteacher but the governors) states that preference will be given to baptised catholic children - because of course it is a faith school, in part funded by the church. As a non-catholic, I dont have a problem with that - it is a clearly stated admissions policy, that the school has made available for all to see. Clearly, a catholic school will take in the catholic community who wish to use the school first, and then open its doors to others.
I hope this answers the blogger who wondered how non-catholics gained entry in the first place, and also explains how in some years there will be a greater proportion of non-catholics than in other years.
And as to the question of the teachers, well, schools represent a cross section of society, even catholic ones, and as a consequence, some of the teachers will be more open minded and effective than others. That is no different to any other school in the state system at least. I am sure that most teachers try their best on a day to day level, and not all will have been influenced by FM to the degree that is being suggested in the blog. Hopefully, there will be a full and clear picture painted soon about whether or not the allegations against FM are indeed true, and then all can move on and try and celebrate the fact that the church does do many good things in the community as does the school.
the blog at 9.14 is very reassuring.
thank you for calmly putting some facts across.
obviously there are many happy people at the school and hopefully those that are not will gain extra support in light of these comments.
there is a tinge of snobbery at the school but it could be rectified if it is acknowledged.
I very much agree with the temperate comments made by David S but I fear he is wasting his time as the bigoted morons who have polluted this site will never listen to reason.
I suggest those of us who still believe in innocent until proven guilty just ignore this cesspit of bile
David S has made some very valid points.
Blogger 2.59 and many others for that matter-even me...take some of the medicine you would like to give others.
I can't personally see what the allegations that refer to Father Michael have to do with who goes to a Catholic School. I was at a Catholic School in the 60's and not all pupils were Catholics. The school was run with a Catholic ethos and included those non Catholic pupils who wished to attend any services etc. Quite honestly does it really matter what religion any of us are as long as we can all get along together. There are too many of us not communicating as it is, without fighting over religion.
As far as the allegations are concerned ... we will have to wait for the outcome. The Catholic Church does not have a good record regarding sexual abuse - that is a fact. It also is a powerful machine, with access to the best lawyers and has been known to cover up where possible. It was not able to do this in the case of former Tunbridge Wells priest McLennan who was convicted and jailed. His arrest took place in 2009
http://www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk/news/priests-faces-jail-sex-crimes/article-658732-detail/article.html
We all know different sides to F Michael. He was an excellent business man but not a good communicator. He isolated many of his parishioners and bore grudges. He often behaved in a very undignified way. Not all parishioners saw this but it is known by many. It seems the blog has enabled many to come forward with their grievances about the man - who was not always who he seemed to be. This does not make him guilty or innocent - it just reveals something was wrong and parishioners were treated differently. I left Corpus Christi
after unreasonable behaviour by F Michael but have now returned and feel comfortable with Father Tom. I would not be happy with the return of F Michael whatever the outcome, and I believe it is very unlikely he will return. I hope that the allegations are not true as if they are an innocent life has been ruined.
The issue with intake into catholic schools continues and no one is getting the facts that non Catholics get into the schools because they cheat. They attend the church prior to entry forms handed into the school and get father to sign them. They don't appear ever again until their child is receiving holy communion to dress up in a white dress or suit!!! Not because they are committed Christians. They are abusing our good money. Also, many parents want their children to attend our catholic schools because they haven't disciplined their children at home and burden the schools with their lack of support. They believe its the school's problem to make their children well behaved clever individuals!!!! That's where our funding goes to backward and disruptive children!!! Parents need to know that discipline starts at home and its their responsibility to ensure their children has the ground work done, that they have a good breakfast and are supported at home in every way and that it is their job NOT THE SCHOOL'S!!!
March 1 11:05pm, really you should be ashamed of yourself. So you represent being a Catholic then?? To call any child backward is disgusting and I suggest it is you that may be backward. You are also wrong about the intake policy at the school. You do NOT need to get Father to sign a form if you are non Catholic. I know lots of non catholics who have never attended the Church, why should they, they have stated they were non Catholic and gained a place for their child because a place was available. There isn't enough Catholic children in Tonbridge and the surrounding areas to take all the places. You seem to think that the Catholic faith breeds perfect non-disruptive children who excel at school. This isn't the case, we are all only human, WHATEVER faith we are from.
@ March 1 re Catholic Schools
The system as we know it does encourage parents to try to obtain what they see is the best education for their child. This is true of the 'whole' system whether it be a faith school or not. Children are hot housed before the 11+, parents watch the league tables that the Government have implemented, children are driven in and out of areas to be educated in what is perceived to be the 'best' school, that could be the closet school, or a school that has good results or a combination of many many different factors including personal preference. All faith schools tend to be more highly disciplined than non-faith schools and that is simply the projection of religion. Catholics also take advantage of their faith schools. By simply being baptised and showing up to mass for a while as this their security of placement at the school. We cannot measure faith by simply signing up. The Catholic Church is wealthy beyond our comprehension. The Vatican is a stand alone state. I am a catholic by baptism and attended a faith school, my children were baptised Catholics but attended a local grammar school as did most of the Catholics I know who at 11+ chose between a grammar school or a comprehensive faith school. I need not even write my answer here as to what schools were chosen. Catholics play the system as much as non-Catholics because it is structured in this way. As far as spending 'our' money or 'your' money on non-Catholics is concerned I believe you are deluded. This money is pent simply on having a faith school which of course is important and equally important that non-Catholics can attend and keep a balance. There are more important issues in life than who gets places at St Margarets. I am sure Catholic children are the first choice and then the remaining available places go to non-Catholics. Man of those Catholics are playing the system and their children will go on to grammar schools - and why not - they offer a wonderful education and after all it is 'our' and 'your' money that is paying for them too through taxes.
To 11.05. You are an apalling example of the human race.Fortunately there are people of faith that can see around menaces like yourself!!
I hope your children don't grow up with your abhorrent views and I hope they don't go to catholic schools as I would hate to rub shoulders with you anywhere!
You are a disgrace to society-not because you've got recognised unsociable behaviour but because you DONT recognise that you have got unsociable behaviour.YUK!!
Reading between the lines it seems the real issue at SM is that:
Some children are favoured.
There are inequalities within the service provided.
P.T.A.parents and teachers can expect more respect and dignity - as can their children.
Children are actively encouraged to attend Grammar Schools in favour of St.Greggs even though faith is promoted as an important factor in school life.
St Greggs should get more promotion from a feeder school.
March 2nd 5.25 - yuk to you too, as you fail to understand that social behavior begins at HOME not school and that there are backward/unsupported children from poorly supported families who don't care. Are you dumb that you don't recognize that all children are born with brains and are clever but its how we support them and nurture them deh!!!! Your children must be super human eh? 99% of children are groomed or tutored to pass the 11+ they don't pass naturally and the children end up in grammar schools having been tutored that they can't think for themselves and fall behind. I recall one education director stated that they should NOT be any tutoring and that the 11+ should be the child's natural ability from what they have taught in school. I told him stand at the exam centers and ask every child going through if they had been tutored and then come back and state that no child should be tutored!!! If your child goes to a grammar school ask yourself if they came naturally talented or were they unnaturally supported!!!!
I repeat that as a non-catholic and a non-church goer, I have not experienced anything other than support from the majority of teachers for my children at the school. It is not my experience that catholic children are favoured over non-catholic children, by the majority of staff. There are issues with supporting additional needs at the school, but parents have those issues whether their children are catholic or not. Many teachers in many schools have a difficulty in supporting additional needs, because a classroom of 30 children is not conducive to individualised support. That is a government issue, not an issue with the local schools. And I am pleased that some people have expressed their views on 'backward children', because it is only through discussion that these views can be challenged. The person writing the views has some valid points - there are some children who do not have appropriate support at home and that is a fact, but shouting and screaming at the parents is possibly not the best way to go about rectifying the problem. It is easy to stand on judgement about how people bring up their children, and to congratulate ourselves on how well we do, educating and feeding them well etc etc, but it is easy to forget that many parents out there have also been failed in education and opportunities, and those issues need to be addressed before things will improve for their children. Unfortunately, by expressing such a judgemental tone, the blogger will just re-enforce the general view in society that those who adhere to the catholic faith are narrow minded and their views are not worth considering in modern society. The same could be said for those people passing judgement about FM before the facts of the case have been investigated and published. It is an important legal principle that one is to be considered innocent unless proven guitly - it would perhaps be wise of us all to wait and see what the police and courts have to say.
To YUK. This is the LAST response to you that I shall make as you seem to be rather chaotic in your thought process.
You can't call children backward!! Its slander.
You seem to have somehow connected the reponse to your slanderous blog with Grammar School.I don't see the link.
Anyway-whether children are badly behaved or not ..it is not Christian to contemplate exclusion from admission to a school.
Obviously exclusion is not warranted just because people like YOU think they should be catholic nor because people like you have some misunderstanding of human rights.
You must have some sort of traslation problem which you need to address.
Does anyone know when F Michael's hearing takes place and where?
Backward children isn't slander its stating why they are backward and the main reason is that parents don't support them and they lag behind the class or are badly behaved. Then these lazy parents expect the schools whether catholic, but mainly, to discipline and pick up the pieces. Children don't just turn out like that they are nurtured from young by their parents or should be!
It would be interesting to note what address father gives at his court hearing and bet your bottom dollar its where we all go for our daily prayer and Mass!! You don't think its his house that he inherited?
children that are not properly supported by their parents are neglected....read the childrens act.
backward is lagging behind...you use the term in an insulting way.
children that lag behind are not necessarily neglected as you imply.
Backward,Fat,Bitch,Boiler.
These words are not slander on their own but when used out of context they most certainly are!
Think the person who said backward children is trying to state children are aren't supported by their parents and because of the lack of they turn out to be a state problem, costing schools tons of money. You all seem to have swolled a dictionary and may be 'backward' yourselves!!! Everything is not put in the right context for your benefit and maybe you are one of the parents whose children are supported by the state for 'lagging behind' or 'backward' children. Just lets face facts here and the person who said it, was correct, children are born clever but its the support they don't receive makes them 'lag' behind in school.
11:01pm. swolled!!! think it's you who's lagging behind.
Does anyone know when Father Michael's hearing takes place and where it takes place. Or has it already taken place. I would have liked to have supported him.
Children that lag behind may have many difficulties AND be supported by their families!!!
The state has a responsibility to care for all children.One of it's main policies is Equality for all!!!
I would like to point out that this particular blog, is regarding the allegations made against Fr Michael.
Looking at the last page of this blog, seems to me that this is now turning into a smear campaign against S.M.C School. I'm not staff or a member of the P.T.A, I'm just a parent who have children at this school.
I would like to suggest to the Tonbridge blogger to start up a blog regarding primary schools in the tonbridge area. I know of two schools in this area (S.M.C is not one of them) that do not support children with learning difficulties and that they do all they can to push these children out.
S.M.C is regarded as outstanding by Ofstead. There are many schools in this area that are not.
I'm very happy with S.M.C and so are my children. No school is going to please everyone, but I can say that there are worst schools in the Tonbridge area than S.M.C.
This blog did start because of allegations made against FM, but unfortunately church and school are linked because of faith. I don’t agree with a lot of points raised, but parents want to air their frustrations and sadly feel this is the only place to do so without consequence to them or their children. SMC have an outstanding ofstead but that doesn’t mean their perfect and people can’t raise point that clearly concern them. And some of these points were discussed with FM.
I didn't say S.M.C is perfect. A perfect school doesn't exist!!!!!
OBSERVATIONS
Fr.Michael may be guilty!
Fr.Michael let a lot of people down!
Being a good Catholic takes some work!
Catholic schools don't practice the bible!
Catholic communities sometimes think they're superior!
Christians that are not catholic have been rebuked by this blog!
Those who should be spreading the word have repelled people who thought they'd found happiness at Tonbridge Parish!
All children deserve opportunity!
More people on this site need to go to church!
May we all help all children!
This site started in reaction to a child that has potentially been abused and in spite of this has deteriorated into a persecution of children that do not perform well in school!
My observation is that people are ready to sweep problems under the carpetie:dont let these kids in OUR school-similarly: a history of abuse within the church that has previously been covered up.
Bleet!
the date for FM's case is this friday? why has no one stated this on this blog or are you all too scared that you may commit a sin.
To be dishonest is a sin and therefore anyone who has the correct info should come forward and put it on the blog
Where and when on Friday???
Thanks for the date of F Michael's hearing. Where would that be? Maidstone?
To Anonymous March 19 @ 10.52 - You say FM's hearing is this Friday - you also say people with correct info should add comments to this blog, perhaps you should lead by example as your facts re the hearing are a total fabrication !!
to the last blogger your 19th 10.52 is incorrect as we can't see this!!! Also the person who said FM case was on the 25th put a question mark and is asking not stating deh!!!
they were asking for confirmation so get facts right. If you know its fabricated then come forth u so honest saint with the dates!!!
What is really an eye opener here is it really shows how people in Tonbridge are so ignorant and are seriously living in a world detached from reality.
To 24th 11.08
What do you mean you cant see this?
You are very annoying but I guess you have a purpose-if only to test our patience.
I called the Police station to find out when F Michael's case was to be heard. It is still being assembled. Up and coming cases and lists at the courts are freely available to the public. The police are most helpful and so is County Court at Maidstone. A member of the public can attend a hearing if it is not a closed hearing.
Oh-that would be interesting. A bit like public stoning in the good old days.
Why would you want to go and see someone put down-he is not of any concern to you because otherwise you would know the arrangements.
The facts will be revealed in newspapers so no need to hear it first hand-it wont do anyone any good.
Gossip- Idle talk,especially about other people;person who engages in gossip. thanks to the Collins English Dictionary. I think that explains most people's comments on this blog!!!!!!
Father is leaving and I don't blame him for not wanting to stay in an area that is dishonest and sinful and ignorant. Bring back FM because he fitted in very well, and he did whilst the bishop knew of his horrid background he dumped FM on us!!
Having read through all 269 comments, I'm disgusted by many of the things I've read on this blog, and can't help but to respond with some of my thoughts. Sorry if this posts twice, but it didn't work the first time.
Having attended Corpus Christi for many months before I moved away to university, I was shocked when I heard of the allegations regarding Father Michael. I believe that the people who have posted here ought to wait for the verdict of the hearing before slandering this man. To gossip about his nature and financial assets is completely unrelated to speculation about the accusation. I suspect that some of the earlier 'anonymous' posters are reporters, and that people's angry responses are counter-productive in their quest for the truth. If you have issues with life in your parish, there are channels available to help deal with them, whining about the problems on a blog is hardly the answer.
From what I understand, many of you claiming to be Christian seem to have lost the essence of the faith you claim to hold, in favour of jumping the bandwagon of slating a man on a case about which you probably know nothing. For those who do consider yourselves well informed about Father Michael's personal life, I doubt he, or anyone, would appreciate for you to spread the intricacies of his financial assets among other things on an internet forum for all to see. I fail to see the relevance of such information to the discussion.
The posts seem to have digressed onto the Catholic vs Non-faith school debate. I wish to personally respond to the post of February 1, 2011 10:18 PM: "99% of pupils getting into grammar schools are privately tutored". A statement so unfounded is outrageous, and I would be interested to know how you believe yourself to be so well educated about the grammar school system, please check your 'facts' before posting. Any child is capable of achieving academically, given the right support, and we live in an area with an array of good schools at our disposal. It's horrible to describe any child who tries their best as a 'waste of space'; I quote, "when the child is tutored and pass's they then struggle in the grammar school and are a waste of space". It is my belief that grammar schools are integral to the education system in order to push those who are particularly naturally gifted towards achieving their full potential. A child can still receive a valid spiritually influenced education outside the classroom, should that be the wish of the individual and their parents; Catholics at non-faith schools should not be looked upon unfavourably because they choose not to attend a school like St. Gregs, over an academically more suitable school.
Another comment I found to be ignorant and unfounded was posted February 3, 2011 9:53 PM, and reads, "Tonbridge let me tell is filled with snobs who are so ignorant, and its not until the real people from London have invaded the place, have they finally realised three is an outside world of very nice people!!! Any outsider who meets a Tonbridgean is met with ignorance and snobbery. And of course there are so many private schools which dictate the environment and the posh arrogant fake unnecessary accent!" It is ridiculous to generalise in this way, as in my experience, hardly anyone in the Tonbridge area fits this description. If you don't like living there, move. It is simple.
As far as I'm concerned, this forum has been a source of gossip, hypocrisy and slander. I hope it has been useful to everyone in the Corpus Christi community to be able to anonymously express their dissatisfaction with certain aspects of church life, as interesting as it has been to read such an exposition of views. I know that my contributions may not affect anyone's opinions concerning any of the matters discussed, since they are evidently so concrete, yet I am nonetheless glad to have contributed to the supposed 'intellectual snobbery' that this blog has provided.
wow, witness the hatred. some people really are quite petty. quite why SMC has come into this i dont know. i went there and found it to be an excellent school, i have 2 close relations who go there and they're doing well. not quite sure of the basis of claims about parish secretary etc, to claim they had involvement is most certainly slanderous.
i have to say my favourite comment on this is march 26th 8.35 "the facts will be revealed in the newspapers" - hahahahahaha
Corpus Christi seems to be a broken parish. Its up to us (the parishioners) to mend it. There is a lot of conflict between us (parishioners) on this blog. Although at mass we all greet each other and during mass we all show the sign of peace to one another! I for one see this as being hypocritical (due to the blog's I have read on this site). As we have all seen Fr Tom being here at our parish, has shown us, all how nice and welcoming this parish can be.The parishioners on this blog who attend mass at Corpus Christi regularly must of seen the difference since Fr Tom's arrival. He is, I think a prime example of how a parish priest should be, and I for one look forward to going to mass on a sunday morning,(as it should be for all of us who attend mass on any other day). Before Fr Tom I felt that Corpus Christi was an unwelcoming and a cold parish to be in. But my faith as a catholic made me stay within this parish. It would be a great shame to see Fr Tom leave. I hope and pray that for me and my family and for all the parishioners who attend Corpus Christi,will stay as a welcoming, warm and friendly place to be as it is now. We can't go back to what it was before Fr Tom's arrival can we? Its up to us as the parishioners of Corpus Christi to decide.
Here Here to 12.18. I agree with all your sentiments and unite with you in the quest for continuing forward in the way that Fr.Tom has shown us.
Enough about the past and it's upset-its time to move on.
I am so sad that Father Tom will leave. He is just what Corpus Christi needed and actually still needs. I too have occasionally returned to Tonbridge to mass since F Michael's departure. How sad - when is he leaving. I suppose I should ask this weekend. Here's hoping the new priest will be as welcoming as F. Tom. I agree we can't and must not go back to how it was before his arrival.
Father Tom didn't have to go, but he probably finds the parish and Footbridge the most boring and fake place compared to where he has chosen! Don't build your hopes up for a nice priest it will probably be FM or someone closely matched by the bishop as he sent FM to us as he thought we deserved the likes of him!! Yes FM is possibly coming back, so don't hold your breath and the secretary and all the ladies have a party your hero is likely to return as you all protected him and worked for him.
The whole of the parish is so fake, esp the ladies, who pretend to like each other and all the parishioners who come with some 'oh so holy am I' and pretend to get on with everyone, but its just a scam to fit in. How many of these people know their faith, all they knew was FM and how to please him and work for him!!
For the blogger who said that 99 percent of pupils who enter grammar school are tutored I can confirm this is fact and not fiction. Special needs and 'backward children' I agree is made to be part of the state funding when its the responsibility of the parent. 'Backward children' really I think was stated in a manner that children are not performing to the standard that is suited to their ages. We spend thousands a year helping these youngsters when I have seen parents who take on board the duty to support their 'backward child' at home and the results are fantastic. Why would you rely on state funding which its already over funded when we can avoid some of it!!!!
It's not just Fr. Michael who have broken this parish, Its people like you that have broken it to. Is there any wonder why Fr Tom is leaving.
Whatever the outcome it is doubtful that F Michael could come back. He is nearing retirement age and sadly mud sticks. There will always be doubt from some no matter what happens at his hearing and the parish and the Church as a whole can not take the risk of bad feeling. A clean sweep will be what they plan. It is very saddening, if that is the truth, that Father Tom will not remain, but his role is is replaceable.
I agree a parish priest is always replaceable. But Corpus Christi was not a welcoming parish. Until Fr. Tom. I have always been to a parish with the likes of Fr. Tom. To come to a parish as it was with Fr. Michael I found it a great shock. Some People in Tonbridge have lived a very shelted life.I agree with the comment posted 01/04/ at 12.18. Please let us as a parish find peace its been a long time coming. For our children please show that as a parish and as humans we can, as a parish turn this around. As the post said we all greet each other and WE ALL SHOW THE SIGN OF PEACE TO ONE ANOTHER DURING MASS. Dont let people who want to set a cat amongst the pigeons destroy Corpus Christi
How can you think that FM won't want to come back as mud sticks and he is nearing retirement!!! There is no retirement for priests and he was fit enough. You should all demand why then if mud sticks he already had mud before he became a parish priest in our parish!!!! Everyone knew this even the ladies in the office and they would be the happiest people to see him back. The bishop is stopping Father Tom from staying because he wants FM to come back or give us another muddy person!!! FM robbed us right in front of our eyes and we knew but no one said anything. He was funding his expensive lifestyle through our funds and he was practically retired with it too, doing as little work as possible. Ask yourselves where did our money go?
Now he is costing us even more money whereby we have to fund his expensive lawyers and accommodation and upkeep, whilst he isn't working or is he allowed to work elsewhere given that he is on bail - its against the law? Now he has asked for more time to think... and its costing us more money. Why didn't they sack him pending an investigation to allow him to pay for his errors!!!
If you were homeless or had troubles do you think the Bishop is going to help you - never in a million years - but if you are priest and the reputation of the church is at stake then yes lets waste good money.
Father Tom was given our parish as his option to stay by the bishop and he had to take what was offered to him as he has no choice. We are getting FM back or another bad priest as you see they thought we were thick and ignorant not to see through FM for 19 years we endured this - we must have been so naive and its true what the blogger said Tonbridge is so behind the times, and so pretentious!
Father Michael will not come back as he himself could not bear to be here even with a non-guilty verdict. Father Michael has always been very concerned with image and even on some occasions has asked what parishioners think of him. He would no longer be able to put into place the relationships he had with the 'seemingly' correct and authoritative members of Tonbridge and the church. These were used to create a safe and proper image of himself. This is not an accusation of guilt of sexual abuse but just a reflection on the character of the man. The Bishop could not afford any doubts in a parish as large as Tonbridge or in it's geographical position in the South East of England. It is simply too high profile in some senses and F Michael return to such a parish is too risky in the current climate of child abuse in the Catholic church, especially so the ongoing cases in Ireland. As Father Tom is here at the moment and has brought reconciliation and hope to a broken parish it would be the right and proper situation that he stays, as according to him he rather likes Tonbridge.
Since my earlier contributions I have continued to monitor the submissions to this blog site. How appalled I am to see such bigoted and offensive comments still being frequently submitted.
The present situation with FM seems to have polarised the contributors. There are a few here with a moderating tone (though too few in my opinion). Sorry, Anon 25th Feb 2:59, but a balanced, informed opinion is always worth making to counter-balance the uninformed, offensive and one-sided opinion of others. There remains a vast majority of submissions from those with a lynch-mob mentality that have taken the opportunity to offer up their aggressive, often-capitalised, opinions in a most un-Christian-like manner. I appreciate that some of the contributors will not be from the CC congregation but it would appear from the tone of some submissions that there’s also a number who haven’t even met FM (or indeed given him a chance to explain his position) yet feel perfectly qualified to foist their hate-filled opinions on us. How seriously are we to take their contributions?
A number of the CC congregation are expressing their dissatisfaction with FM. These contributors are joining the others who are dissatisfied with the way SMC is operated.
Do these people not realise that they have a choice?
Those occasions when I have had an issue with Catholicism and SMC, I raised the first with FM and the second with SMC’s Head. Both FM and SMC’s Head freely offered me their time and in both instances the issues were openly discussed and an agreeable and enlightened outcome reached. If I had been dissatisfied with their respective responses I would have been left with a choice – put up and shut up or seek an alternative for my mass attendance or children’s education. There are always other parishes and other schools. Using this blog site to air grievances in this way is simply wrong and cowardly. Isn’t it hypocritical to bemoan of grievances here when they have not been discussed with the relevant parties first?
Like the majority, I like Fr Tom. However, I have been extremely happy with FM too. I do not expect FT to stay, as it was expressed that his position was just temporary from the very start. Unfortunately, I do not expect FM to return either – this site has revealed the extent of the cowardly (why anonymous if you’re so entrenched in your opinions?), disappointed masses within the midst of CC and Tonbridge. I detest the way he has been demonised here. Despite what others have said, he has done a large amount of good, irrespective of the current accusation, and has been an asset to Tonbridge.
I hope that whomever we finally have as parish priest, FM or another, we greet them with civility, respect and kindness. Or attend mass in another parish. Ultimately, the choice is ours.
Finally, to Anonymous 3 April 10:31, you appear to be so full of spite and venom. I feel very sorry for you.
This blog site illustrates that we don't just have a fly in the ointment but a few bad apples rotting the whole fruit.
I certainly agree with a previous blogger that we should put the past behind us and move on.
Whoever keeps putting a negative slant on good intentions must be ignored.
Incidentally, some people cant express themselves confidently so we should work as a parish to maintain happiness for Everyone-not just ourselves.
I find David S's comments interesting - he is right that a lot of comments on the blog appear bigotted, but I would argue that in the interests of free speech it is fundamentally important that people feel free to express their views without fear of being lynched or supressed. Alot of people have strong views - they may not be as articulate as David S is in expressing them in an acceptable way - that doesnt mean their views are not worth considering. I hope that everyone feels able to contribute to this blog in a frank manner to allow for people's issues and concerns around FM and SMC to be discussed fully rather than swept under the carpet because they may appear unpalatable. And of course, people may appear full of hatred from their comments - I would further suggest that rather than make snide comments about how sorry we feel for them, it would be more positive to try to get to the bottom of the feeling that is clearly so strong - they may have valid reasons for feeling the way they do.
One thing that is really positive about anonymous blogs is that people feel free to say what they want, and lets face it, sometimes frank debate is the only way that issues become properly discussed and resolutions found.
We in our house agree that the parish will never ever be in good hands because the Bishop put FM, knowing he had a bad past, in our hands to redo his crimes. Did we deserve this, yes, because we did not stick up for ourselves and in theory we should be as guilty as FM for anything he did. We agree as previously written, for 19 years we bend backwards for FM, for 19 years one person, a David S, benefited and writes some English essay on how he was given time with FM to voice his concerns? FM only listened and greeted and had time for people who had something in it for him. He was a user and never acknowledged the whole congregation ever, he would avoid any type of contact or interaction unless, you had something for him!! He never bent backwards for anyone and even my children who problems in SMC were never given the time by FM, strange how DS was!!!!
Further to this, we believe our next priest will be worse, do we even know if FM had a criminal record or had a FULL CRB check. He couldn't have yet he was allowed to play with our kids and come into contact with them is disgusting and illegal.
Change the Label!!!!
Underachieving ie;differently achieving kids(NOT BACKWARD) may simply have talents and abilities in areas outside traditional academics. Often they excel as artists, boat builders, stylists, or ace mechanics.
The greatest gift we can give these "different learners" is permission to be themselves and encouragement to follow their passions. It is important to replace that awful label with "differently achieving" .
Remember that Albert Einstein was labeled as an "underachiever" as a youth. His alternative vision of the world is one that has earned him an indelible place in history.
In response to some of the findings in this blog.
Choose your friends, your enemies will choose you.
The following is a post I stumbled upon . I decided to repost it given the profound statements and impact it immediately had on me.
Leeroy’s Tumblr: http://ccourse.tumblr.com/post/633699199/choose-youre-friends-your-enemies-will-choose-you
I realize that you let a lot of people in your life over a short period of time and some are there for you and some are not. And I’m not just speaking from experience, I’ve seen it in numerous relationships my friends have had. Whether it is a “boyfriend,” “girlfriend,” “friend” or something in between, people come and go out of your life. Being a good person, many times you probably find yourself opening up to other people, especially to those you’re trying to form a relationship with. You’re honest, you’re giving, you’re trusting, you’re open. The good ones, they give it back, they’re there for you, they’re understanding and above all they’re honest. The bad ones are a little more complicated. These people many times seem like people we trust and would like to get to know but as we all know, things are not always what they seem. I believe that most people begin with good intentions when entering any type of relationship but for some people it stops being about what “we can do for each other” and becomes “what can you do for me.” You find yourself giving everything you got until you come to a point where you feel like you have given everything. It’s an empty, frustrating and exhausting feeling and all your time and effort was invested into nothing. Some people can be very selfish but not understand the effects they have on those around them while others completely understand the effects and thrive off them, these are users. These people are good at what they do and that’s persuading you into giving them what they want and for that reason alone it is extremely hard to identify these people. My dad always told me, “Just because someone is smiling in your face doesn’t mean they are your friend.” I understand that now more than ever.
I’ve found the most important thing when running into situations like this though is how you handle them. It’s easy for someone to hold a grudge against someone they felt did them wrong, believe me I know. But in the end, the best thing you can do for yourself is to let it go. I believe people were put on this Earth to effect each others lives, for better or for worse. You can drive yourself crazy living in self-pity or seeking revenge especially over people that are simply not worth it. The way I see it, what goes around comes around, they can’t keep their act up for ever and at some point they will be alone, very alone. And who knows some people may realize what they’ve done or what they’ve been missing in you, people do change. Just remember your friends are close but sometimes you’re enemies are closer.
To the ignorant one!
Social behaviour is cultivated at home but thankfully it is also cultivated in school- allowing those less fortunate than yourself to gain insight and experience into a better way of life - hence progression towards well-being.
Community cohesion is promoted in schools whether you agree or not.
You obviously do NOT represent the school mentioned or any other school for that matter.
In response to David S, April 4th
You say people who express their unhappiness with the school and Parish ‘Do these people not realize that they have a choice’. Yes we do but that isn’t the answer to leave and go elsewhere. Why should we? My children have read this blog with the following comments. SMC was an unhappy time in their lives; it set the wrong impression for their next school. SMC was full of favoritism and hypocrisy. If you were part of the in-group, you were including in every thing regardless of ability. If not, you were completely over looked until it came to SAT’s time. Then for months on end everyone was expected to do practice papers for homework!! If you didn’t comply you had to endure spiteful comments from the teachers. There are many things I could say about the time my children spent at that school, but what is the point? FM was aware of these things and did nothing. My children have nothing to do with the catholic faith because of their experience and they are the future, how many other children feel the same?
I really think it is bad practice to over study for SATS.
Children should only be FORCED to do a restricted amount of homework and they should be sitting the SATS papers purely to give an impression of the level children have achieved through being taught at that particular school.
These SATS papers have been misused in many circumstances.
However,the most worrying part of these papers being manipulated is that children as young as 8 and 9 have been pressured not only by parents but by qualified teachers who should know better.
As far as Healthy Schools and the need for water in place of fresh fruit juice etc...another initiative that has been taken too literally.I heard that children have had to empty out the contents of their packed lunch bags to prove they aren't carrying any illegal substances eg:ORANGE JUICE!!
Whilst on the subject of searching children's lunchboxes - what on earth is that about. Do we live in a communist regime? As for healthy eating - schools don't have a clue with what they offer. I am sure the teachers eat really badly as do most of the population. To be honest anything in a plastic bottle is carsonogenic whether it be water or orange juice. As far as I am concerned a bottle of fresh orange juice - not concentrate - is very nutritious for a child. I do wish schools would stop and think and not behave in the way they do. Imagine the trust a child has in its parents and then the school polices the parents by searching a home packed lunchbox for illegal substances. It is actually totally ridiculous. OK sweets and chocolates etc are best left at home but the rest is left to our own freedom. Schools should teach and just get on with what they are meant to do and not be the nutrition police. As far as school meals are concerned even the healthy options are unhealthy. Pasta with a fatty sauce, cheap meat full of pesticides, unorganic fruit covered in pesticides and probably unwashed, cheese laden lasagne and salad with lettuce that has been sprayed more 7 times. Be careful what you eat at school. The majority of parents would just like to be parents and surely the majority of teachers just want to get on with the job of teaching. Where is freedom. There is none. Britain is one of the most highly watched and snooped on countries in the world. Stop. And as for SATS and testing - let children be children and learn. We live in an area that is obsessive with the 'right' school and getting there and still our standard fall way below Europe. Second languages are hardly taught anymore. A child can pass a GCSE at A* in a modern language and barely be able to write or converse in it - it is true mine did it and sailed through with A* and so did their peers and really they were all hopeless - why? It is that english grammar is no longer taught and without that they cannot progress to speaking and writing proficiently in a foreign language. And that is why pupils in Europe are way ahead of ours.
The grammer school system is in place in Germany for instance and children are selected through school testing and reports and educational history. Once in that grammar school or middle school etc it doesn't mean they stay there. They have to work hard and those who improve can move to a more suitable school, and those who fall back move from grammar to middle school. Not like here. Children are hot housed until 11 years and then wonce in their chosen schools are left by their parents to their own devices as until post GCSE it is unlikely their children are challenged to move from that school. The system is really weak here. We should learn something from the Europeans - and btw - also from their weekly markets (that is if you have read the latest blog on this site)
Whilst I have had some issues with SMC over the years my children have been at the school, I really feel the need to defend the school for some reason!! I think the thing about lunchboxes is simply a rumour - I have never encountered that and my children have attended the school for a number of years and sometimes one will bring in orange juice! And I can sort of sympathise with those who say that some children appear to be favoured at the school, but I am not sure whether that is real, or whether as a parent with children who struggle (as I have) one becomes slightly jaundiced with schooling per se - I personally now think that (some of) my children would have similar difficulties in any school because they are not easy, middle of the road children that state schools are set up to teach. Lets face it - in one hour of literacy, in a class of 30, the teacher can only as a maximum have 2 mins per pupil on a one - one basis - clearly some children are not going to thrive, but that is not a fault of the school per se, but the education system as a whole. I think the headteacher really tries her best to meet the needs of all at the school - including those like myself and my children who are non -catholic, non church going - I get the feeling that she is a committed teacher - but in reality she cannot possibly meet everyones needs in the way that they could be met in a smaller environment, or at home. And the pressure for 11+ and SATS results comes as much from the parents as it does the school, because we live in this area where grammar schools provide so much better an academic education than to the local comprehensives. It is clear from the blog that some people feel really aggrieved with the school for a number of reasons, but perhaps they could consider the above to think about whether their perceptions of the SMC and the teachers are real, or rather reflect the difficulties they face trying to place their children through a mainstream state system in an area where selection at 11+ operates. I am not sure what the answer is, but I like to believe that SMC, and the majority of teachers in it, want the best for the pupils that they teach.
Just read the blog and as a past pupil from from SMC, I agree that the lunchtime routine was ridiculous!
We weren't allowed to have any drink but water. I remember kids hiding their orange juice and being made to feel as if it was a crime to bring such an 'awful' drink into school. Now that I'm older and I reflect back on those times I realise how pathetic the rules were. It even went as far as children crying at the thought of the dinner ladies checking their lunch boxes! Most of the time the dinner hall had to remain silent, with no talking to friends whilst eating lunch. A word spoken would result in table wiping...
There was extreme favouritism to kids of parents who worked in the school, or who were on the PTA!!! Along with unfairness towards less favoured pupils.
I always felt on edge and as if all the teachers 'hated me.'
Homework, homework, homework + more homework.
I remember full days of SATS papers, followed by children crying in the playground worrying about being 'failures' and simply the whole stressfulness of the work!
Some teachers were just so nasty and it seemed as if they would go out of their way to make certain kids feel uncomfortable.
I experienced unfair punishments for ridiculous reasons!
Everything was completely different on inspection days.
NOOOOOOOO idea how they got an outstanding ofsted! It makes me SO angry because I along with many had such an awful time there.
It was so fake. fake fake fake fake. Everyone was fake and it turns out, so was the priest!
If I could turn back time, I would definitely go to a different school and my parents would agree 100%!!!
It would of completely changed our lives!
So if I still haven't made it clear enough for you I absolutely hated it!
It is very sad to hear such stories about a catholic school. It reminds me of a very disturbing film called The Magdeleine Sisters.
Authority!Some people should never be in charge of anything-never mind children.
Catholic faith is about being as much like Christ as you can manage.
I dont think grammar schools give a better education than comprehensives or similar secondary schools.
What they do have is the children that can achieve high grades at 11+ and then continue to have expectations that are different to those in a regular High School.
Parents of children in Grammar School have often pushed their children to engage at that level and hence this theme no doubt continues.
Children a Hich Schools are still taught by excellent teachers-often possibly better than in Grammar Schools but a high percentage of the children and their families do not put such a high prioirity on PURELY high/very high academic grades.
Much of the teaching in Bennett,St.Greggs,Hayesbrook,and Hugh Christie is of a better standard than some of the Grammar school teaching-BUT the ethos is different.
Jodie and Declan tucker are lovely people and happen to be very close friends of mine and I don't think it was very catholic of you to be so rude and nasty about two wonderful people... FM wasn't arrested for no reason, police don't arrest people for the sake of it and I hardly think that a young child would make up an allegation like that so I suggest that you rethink your trust in him and think about what you are saying about other people that might upset them or others.
Last comment aimed at 3rd feb blogger.
Hi, I am not from Tonbridge, nor do I have any connection to the place. I stumbled across this forum whilst looking for something else, see how open and unsecure the internet is!! I cannot believe that you people call yourself responsible and caring adults. What infantile behaviour I am witnessing. I also happen to be a lecturer and feel that parental responsibility for their own offspring is some what lacking in this country. I also feel that the slander and speculation of innocent people is inherently wrong and leads to hearlt ache. I do not know who the Tuckers are, but I am sure that your petty display of secondary school behaviour could, quite righty, destroy people and any chance of community spirit you people are clinging onto. I am an ex catholic to boot, and feel that organised religion is not the way to go! Try basic human decency for once. Liz, Guidford (as I am not a coward)
Posting this compelling script which was originally
Posted on March 14, 2010 by Fr. Anthony Chadwick.
Paedophile Priests
Years ago, those men were considered curable or at least responsive to punishment. Things were covered up or simply kept discreet to give a man his chance. It is only relatively recently that it has been known that paedophiles, rapists and sadists are men born with a kind of personality, like that of sociopaths and psychopaths, which is intrinsically evil, fixed and unreformable. This notion is terrible to admit, as Christianity has always believed in the possibility of the most hardened sinner repenting, confessing his sins and finding redemption and forgiveness.
A civilised human being respects the other person in a relationship. The argument of those who say “end celibacy and paedophilia will stop” is obviously a fallacy and a red herring.
The Pope needs our prayers to work his way through this crisis and find a way to convince the media and society that the majority of the Church is not guilty for the sins and crimes of the few.
Priests should be exemplary in their spiritual lives, but piety does not guarantee a particular man from being a potential or actual paedophile. The evil is within, and often extremely well hidden. Those men are manipulators, and often able to handle their bishops and seminary rectors with great dexterity. Why does such a man become a priest? I am at a loss to understand – but of course my conception of the priesthood is one of liturgical beauty and pastoral service, and not control and power over other people.
Bishops would do well to study the links between paedophilia and psychopathy, and to seek for the typical traits of a man who has no conscience, is a glib manipulator and gets what he wants without difficulty. Those are the men who should be sent for screening, because background checking isn't enough to root out the sociopath. Glibness, superficial charm and smooth talk are signs of danger. They are probably capable of manipulating the Bishop who is caught unaware. The most characteristic thing is they have no moral conscience, remorse of guilt and no empathy for other people. Their emotions are contrived. They refuse responsibility for their own wrongdoings. I don't know if all paedophiles are psychopaths, but I suspect that most are. If in doubt, have the candidate screened and diagnosed by a psychiatrist.
Perhaps this may turn out to be one of the best things to happen to the Catholic Church since the Council of Trent. The Aegean Stables need to be cleaned out, and many of us believe this is exactly why Cardinal Ratzinger was elected Pope and Archbishop Levada from San Francisco was nominated to the CDF. The ultimate issue will be a complete reform of the Episcopate, and many bishops involved in cover-up intrigues have been made to resign. To what extent is the Pope responsible for a paedophile priest having been given a ministry in the Archdiocese of Munich? He might have not been informed, but the captain of a ship is always and at all times responsible for his vessel and its crew. I don’t know. If he is in some way responsible, he might find it better to come clean rather than be ‘found out’. I am sure his present intention to clean up the clergy would largely atone for any past failing on his conscience, and that his authority and goodness would be enhanced.
Warts and all, we believe this to be the Church of Christ that has survived the corruption of countless Popes and bishops. She is probably going to undergo a period of purification and penance as in the late sixteenth century. Life will become hard for priests, and the priesthood may have to become increasingly elitist and rare. Our age is that of the blog and instant communication. Availability of information such as we ourselves publish erodes the possibility to deceive and lie.
To April 13th 4.37.
Funny how you distance yourself by saying youre not from Tonbridge and an ex catholic.
People carry on in this way due to unsettled anxiety.
Have you not ever acted out of character when under stress.
Some of the things done and said are awful but dont judge from the other side of the fence.We're all in the same world.
When is the court case does anyone know?
When is the court case?
Perhaps now this poisonous portal will close. Enough is enough.
Perhaps now this poisonous portal can stop. Enough is enough.
HOPE ALL YOU HORRIBLE PEOPLE ARE HAPPY NOW. fm HAS DIED AT THE WEEKEND. GO GET YOUR CLAWS INTO SOMEBODY ELSE AND LET HIM RIP
FM has died. leave him alone now and get you claws into somebody else. let him RIP
Father Michael was found dead by his aged mother this morning. May all who persecuted him rot in hell
Father michael has committed suicide, a drug overdose
I agree with almost everything that David S said.
I disagree with one thing and one thing only: "un-Christian-like "
I believe that the comments made were equally as Christian as any other comments, as Christianity and Catholicism are far from perfect.
For example, in the original 500 or so commandments, rape was actually allowed, as well as murder, if the person being murdered was worshipping a 'false god'.
As well as this, all these rapes have happened. FM may well have been innocent, but he is just one case of many hundreds of thousands that have been let slide.
Thus I question Christian morals and the set up of the Vatican. I agree a lot of Christians are very good moral people, as are a lot of Jews, Muslims and atheists; my point is the actual morals set in the bible aren't ''all that''. Maybe priests shouldn't be forced to be kept single and virgin, but should be allowed to enter matrimony. After all, we are all animals and it would be arrogant and delusional, as well as ignorant to assume we are above our genetic makeup. Hence so many failings of the Catholic church when it came to safeguarding these children.
On to the matter at hand:
Everyone stick to facts.
What are the facts?
This isn't even known. Until they are it is impossible to create an informed opinion. Thus no opinion here is valid.
It is wise to have kept your children away from FM until a verdict is reached, but equally I do not doubt that FM was a good man, guilty or not. Thus it is a bit extreme to do this.
Much of the teaching in Bennett,St.Greggs,Hayesbrook,and Hugh Christie is of a better standard than some of the Grammar school teaching-BUT the ethos is different.
Utter bullshit. If assumed to be true all I can say then is that the last sentence really shows. It also implied that the children at these schools must be even more stupid. If you have BETTER teachers and you are still failing / average, then you really must be stupid / dyslexic.
This last sentence is shown. Mainly in the results. Placing secondary schools, such as Weald of Kent, Tonbridge Girls Grammer, TWGGS, Skinners', Judd and even Tunbridge Wells Boys Grammar in the top 100 schools in the country, with outstanding results.
At the end of the day, children with more ability go to these secondary schools and thus achieve better results. There are only so many ways that trigonometry, Physics, Chemistry etccc can be taught; if you have a naff teacher, like at university with a naff lecturer, you deal with it and put in the extra work.
I never had my parents push me to work, I did it for my own benefits, thus it is unfair and incorrect to say that parents push their children, they do not any more than parents at these other schools..
I have friends at these schools also and their parents are just as tough on them when it comes to exams. At the end of the day, results come down to ability, or did you forget that to be able to achieve 100% A* in Maths, Physics and Biology requires some level of intelligence?
Father Michael has died, initial thoughts at a drug overdose but we won't know until the autopsy is completed
Father Michael has died, initial thoughts at a drug overdose but we won't know until the autopsy is completed
Can anyone here think for a moment about what it feels like to the friends of SMC and the church to read these horrific and infantile comments? Or are they to ignorant to think before they post?
I have just been told that he has committed suicide(i am sure that will get confirmed in the local rag next week). So according to the catholic set of beliefs that would mean his burning in hell now.
I wonder if he felt he did not deserve forgivness for what he did or if he was just a coward?
If you have BETTER teachers and you are still failing / average, then you really must be stupid / dyslexic.
This is utter bullshit!! THE ETHOS BEING DIFFERENT IS AGOOD THING.YOU COMPLETELY MISS THE POINT.
Teaching can be excellent and students can have good attention but may lack the trophy child parents.Lucky them.
What a shocking ending to a very shocking set of circumstances.
Hopefully anyone concerned will be followed up with as much concern as before this tragedy.
If this gossip is true I would say anyone who kills themselves must at that time be out of their mind.
I wonder how many shaken victims of sexual abuse have cosidered or even achieved killing themselves.
Suicide instead of trial
The Rev. Jonathan Franklin appears to be the first priest to choose suicide rather than face an allegation of sex abuse since victims began going public in the mid-1980s.
The 61-year-old priest and monk shot himself at a Louisiana abbey in 1986, a week before he was to stand trial on charges of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy at a Pensacola, Fla., church.
A handwritten note lay next to Franklin's body. "My friends, the presumed guilty are an embarrassment, the dead are soon forgotten," Franklin wrote. "I have faith that He will have mercy on me for being presumptuous that now is the time he is calling me home."
For centuries, such an act would have been considered a mortal sin by Catholics.
Life evolves with experience and understanding.
Early on, many believed suicide was a one-way ticket to Dante's version of hell, a sizzling sulfur pit where those who killed themselves writhed alongside other sinners in never-ending agony. For hundreds of years, funeral Masses and burials on consecrated ground were prohibited because of this.
But in 1983, church officials rewrote canon law, opening a door to forgiveness, both from God and the church.
God is good,God is truth, God is beauty, praise him.
You have just contradicted yourself..
At the end of the day, children with more ability go to these secondary schools and thus achieve better results. There are only so many ways that trigonometry, Physics, Chemistry etccc can be taught; if you have a naff teacher, like at university with a naff lecturer, you deal with it and put in the extra work.
this implies that if one is clever then one does not need a good teacher. The original comment is in respect of good teaching within secondary schools that incidentally are Not Grammar. There are good teachers despite the EXAM results!!!!!!
There are good children too!!!!!
High achievers, lovely youths.!!!!
Post mortem results show he did not commit suicide. He was hounded to death and died an innocent man never having been even charged with any crime.
I knew Michael Smith for over 30 years. I believe that until proven guilty one should remain innocent ! He was hounded to death by those ready and willing to pass sentence on him without a trial. Is this what our world has come to ? Shame on those who have written such horrible things on this 'blog'. Let those who are without sin be the first to cast a stone.
Unless FM read this blog-I doubt he was hounded to death.
Whatever the situation,the facts remains the same..He may well be innocent of many presumed activities.
He may well be guilty of many presumed activities.
I was very saddened to read of FMs death. Yet even more saddened to read all the comments on here. I have no idea if he was guilty or innocent, but I do Believe that God is the only one who truly knows what is in your heart. Without wanting to sound like Dot Cotton, look up Proverbs 20:22 where it clearly says God will deal out the justice. My great gran was Catholic and used to tell me it was pointless going to Confession, or Reconciliation as it is now called, unless you were truly sorry, as you could fool the priest, you could even fool yourself, but you couldn't fool God. FM has now had to face God, so all so willing to condemn and all so willing to refuse to believe FM could be guilty can leave it to God to deal with.
To all those who think Father Michael Smith was innocent, get your head out of the clouds!!. it is naive people like you who have lived in denial and allowed people like this to carry on abusing their professional positions. From someone who has known this person a long time, i can honestly say he has escaped justice for a very long time and has now decided to take justice upon himself. Obviously not giving a thought to his mother who he has left behind, and the victims he has given troubled life’s to. Time to end this blog now.
Let those who are without sin be the first to throw stones !
Sorry, but I went to SMC for all my primary years and I absolutely loved it there! The packed lunch rumour was true to an extent but the dinner ladies only checked peoples lunch boxes to make sure they had eaten something and not left it all. Thinking about it, that was a sensible thing to do. If they didn't check the children's lunch boxes and the children didn't eat anything parents would not be happy. The orange juice rumour is not true either! They used to give out black-current juice, orange squash and water at lunch. I loved SMC, it was so welcoming and everyone was so lovely there. The teachers were also very nice and did as much as they could to keep everyone happy. I think all these negative comments that are being left are so ridiculous! if you hate FM and SMC so much why don't you come off of anonymous? Father Michael was one of the family when i was at SMC, he seemed very nice and it shocked me when i saw his name on the front of the newspaper but is gone and what he did was sssssooooooooooooooooo sick and it probably changed peoples lives for the worse but I think we should just let him RIP. he knew what he did was wrong and it was but leave it now. hes dead.
I went to SMC and i actually liked it there! all of these points people are making about the lunches and orange juice are off the topic but may i add they are not true. The FM incident was shocking and sick. but all of this abuse towards the school is actually upsetting me. Its shocking how some people do not have a heart. sometimes people should keep there spiteful opinions to thereselves.
Since I knew him well, I never believed the rumours against Father Michael and Police charges make no difference to me. Jesus was blamed and charged with very serious crimes. Yet we know he was innocent and the authorities of that time just wanted to get rid of him because too politically "incorrect". Yet even Jesus had at least a trial, surely a pathetic trial, but still a trial. Father Michael did not even have that. I read plenty of interventions from boastful bloggers apparently as knowledgeable as magistrates and so many of them killing this man before the investigations have finished. I wish those knows-it-all people, so similar to Jesus time Phariseans, will be charged one day of something equally shocking and be commented upon by their own scripts far before the truth is established. Will they lessen their arrogance of one little notch? Giovanni
i was a dinner lady at smc and watched much of wot happened at lunch time ..., its true kids were not allowed penguin biscuits, fruit juice, or crisps . these were deemed as unhealthy ! surely if we as parents feed this at home then at school it should be ok too ? what we feed our kids is our choice ... if buyin school meals then yes a healthy balanced diet should be given . dinner time assistants were mostly ok apart from some of the ones who were parents ! often listening to their kids on who was doin wrong and listening and acting on this . also one helper if u can call her that shouting right in the face of a 7year old and it resulting in him having to wipe his glasses of spit.... lovely ... not . the head would only act on bullying if it affected one of the richer or more influencial families and i have gd knowledge of this from a freind who i helped write letters. teachers were only ever interested in the tomorrows high flyers , mayb smc should be private and only cater for the unsavoury rich and those social climbers ? i went to a catholic primary and NO way was it like smc... we were treated alike -helped ,told off ,praised, we were all the same something you are not at smc ! as for father m well i dont know .. he has never been a favourite of mine but i cant cast thoughts on wot has happened . im pleased he is no longer our priest but saddened that we as a community shall never know the truth . may his mother find peace and if he has made it to the gates of heaven may god have mercy on him for killing himself .
Fr Michael was one of the loveliest people you'd ever meet; charming, down to earth. His death is a loss to us all.
I have just spent over an hour reading through the whole of this thread regarding Fr Michael, I must admit that I am saddened by what I have read. Please let me explain...
I am, in my eyes a "lapsed Catholic"
following a divorce, I do not attend church regularly, nor do I receive the blessed sacrament, but I do however keep God firmly in my heart and in my life.
In my life time I have met many Catholic priests,(one of whom has been a life long friend since he came to our parish as a curate over 30 years ago).
I have had regular contact with Father Michael through my work, and I cannot honestly say that he was an easy man to deal with.
However, I have also met priests who were the same, it was their way or no way, That did not make him a bad priest, just a somewhat old-fashioned one.
I will not be drawn into the debate of whether he was guilty of the allegations against him or not, none of us should, as there are only three people who know the truth, Father Michael, the poor child in the centre of this and God.
Please do not take my reference to the "poor child" as my acceptance to the allegations, I mean that this type of case is harrowing for all concerned, especially a child.
There are a few people on here that were unhappy with Father Michael's running of the parish, can I ask if any of you brought your views to Father Michael??,did you report any of your misgivings to the diocese??
I think that the answer to these questions is "NO"
As good Catholic's,are we to stand in judgement? NO, we have our God to do that.
Why, is Father Michael being judged for having his elderly mother living with him? should he have put her in a home just because he is a parish priest, how compassionate would that be???
There are allegations that the parish were paying for her care in the presbytery, surely she was in receipt of a pension, and like many others of her age was paying her way.
There are statements that he "owned" a house outside the parish and rented it out, that was seen as wrong, maybe that money was also going towards his mothers care.
What I am really struggling to come to terms with is the "hatred" that I have read on here today, by people who claim to follow the Catholic faith, Joining a new parish because you don't get on with your parish priest is not unheard of, priests are a matter of taste, as are friends, but to attend the church with such disregard for it's ordained priest does seem almost perverse to me.
I hope that all of us can move on from this and be healed by God's love, I will pray for Father Michael's soul, and for his poor mother, who has to bear the loss of her only child, knowing that there are people in our community that despise him.
May God forgive us all.
May Michael Smith rest in peace, and may all who have been hurt by this terrible episode be healed - most especially if any child and their family have suffered - as well as Michael's poor Mother.
why is FM's funeral in our parish and who is paying for this??? How dare the bishop hide him in a coffin and bring him here when he was alive he never came and now he expects us to come and worship him!!! If you all go you are sinners and are saying what he did was okay.
This is outrageous that the church have paid the morgue and investigation of to hush his real cause of death to allow him a funeral is terrible. This highlights that the church are dishonest and are using our money to bury FM - you are all sinners
Tonight Father Michael will be received into his church for the last time. In a few weeks there will be an inquest into his death when the cause of his death will be investigated. This will include the defamatory comments posted on this blog. You may have signed your posting 'anonymous' but you can be easily traced via your ISP. So those of you who think you were smart may very soon get a call from the coroner's office and be held accountable for your actions which may well have contributed to his death.
To May 3
I have disagreed with many of the comments posted on this blog, mainly about the school, but also about judegements made about FM supposed guilt, when no real facts have been made available for a proper decision to be made. However, in the interests of free speech, I believe that everyone should be able to voice their opinion, because then proper debate can be had, and it is this which moves opinion forward, not telling people to keep their unpalatable views to themselves. I hope the debate continues on the blog and broadens to the role of the catholic church in the community, and also to consider the existence of faith schools and whether SMC is as dreadful as some people like to think. Personally, I feel that the school is excellent, and has fantastic leadership from a headteacher committed to all the children in the school, and I think that we should all consider people innocent until proven guitly, but it is interesting and right that we have a frank debate about these issues, and that includes considering and countering where necessary the more unpalatable views expressed by some on this blog.
Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine.
Et lux perpetua luceat ei.
Requiescat in pace.
Amen.
Judgements can't be made without facts, and we don't know the facts of Michael's case - most particularly that he was guilty. It is fruitless speculating now, and the man must be left to rest in peace. We must also bear in mind that his poor Mother would be very distressed to hear vicious comments.
To the anonymous poster above, Michael can hardly be begrudged a funeral, and those present are not 'worshipping' the dead but commending them to God: surely the right thing to do in any circumstances by Christians.
The allegations are unpleasant-hence the comments are unpleasant.
You can't pour sugar over this and expect it to taste nice!
No-one's puring sugar on anything, nor expecting a nice taste. And nor is it necessary to add poison and make an already unpalatable matter worse...
'Tonight Father Michael will be received into his church for the last time. In a few weeks there will be an inquest into his death when the cause of his death will be investigated. This will include the defamatory comments posted on this blog. You may have signed your posting 'anonymous' but you can be easily traced via your ISP. So those of you who think you were smart may very soon get a call from the coroner's office and be held accountable for your actions which may well have contributed to his death.' Who ever wrote this didn't wish to sign their name, and yet this person is preaching to us that we are anonymous. The fact is this is a blogger and the freedom of speech isn't against the law. No one here broke the law and to put this this message is a threat in itself. Why would they bury FM then hold an inquest, shouldn't they have done that before they buried him. No one is to blame for FM's death but himself and the people who protected him. They removed him from the church and suspended him, how could they then justify bringing him back when he died, shouldn't they have kept the shame protection as he and church wanted. its double standard here.
"They removed him from the church and suspended him, how could they then justify bringing him back when he died, shouldn't they have kept the shame protection as he and church wanted. its double standard here."
I don't think it's double standards: he was alive then; he's dead now - a quite different kettle of fish.
When he died he had the same status as when he was alive and that is he was suspended and removed from his post. It doesn't eliminate that fact in law. If you are alive and have debts and when you die you still owe the debt. So it is double slandered that the church suspended him and then gave him a glorified funeral at the same church and area he was suspended from, how can that be justified.
Just to clarify , contary to the previous poster, certainly NO ONE will be contacted through there ISP address (if they were even recorded) regarding any posts on this website, anonymous or otherwise.
R. I. P
Here Here to the previous writer. Have you noted that the threat of exposing all has been taken so seriously that the messages have stopped for fear of being contacted. One should check the law and their rights before being a. afraid and b. writing threats to all for their right to express themselves and freedom of speech.
The church should be ashamed of themselves of allowing FM to have a service in our church and to bring his dead body in all glorification when indeed they suspended him when he was alive and to afraid for his life. He came back hidden in a coffin. How wrong is this.
does any one know the outcome of the post mortem?
Was there a post Morten given that he was given such an honorable send off that the church are sending out the wrong message out to the world and are encouraging such behavior.
Please please, all of you.
Christians are following Christs teachings as laid down in the Bible.
We are not hear to judge nor condem, but to love one another as Christ taught us to.
Our Lady did say that 'the devil' is out to destroy priests and christian marriages.
Keep praying and loving one another. Cathy.
Only Christ was perfect.
Note to Cathy :-
You sit in a very comfortable position of not having been abused - particularly by a catholic priest and particularly in this case FM - whilst your reverent views are important people have a right to their 'say'and unfortunately as you will all find out very shortly all the negative points made on this blog will manifest themselves as the truth - for the moment at least I will have to remain anonymous
how are we to find out
Please Please when will all this hounding of Fr Michael finish, If guilty he will have punished himself finally by his actions and if innocent God will have entered him into heaven with open arms. Please also remember that his mother is still alive and has to carry these sad memories around with her until she dies
'hounding of FM' please please what mercy we show FM, has anyone shown mercy for the people that FM abused according to reliable sources. The victims should be shown mercy not FM, not his mother, as the memories cant be sugar candied to suit her with blinkers. Has his mother ever shown remorse for her son's bad deeds, or is she living in the land of the nod. Whether a person is old, young or middle aged we tell it as it is. 'Heaven will open its arms to FM' honestly you must also be living in the land of the nod. He was SUSPENDED BY THE CHURCH, IS THIS NOT ENOUGH TO SAY HE WAS GUILTY AND THAT HE HAD A PASSED HISTORY PRIOR TO ENTERING THE PARISH KNOWN THE BISHOP, SO HOW CAN THE CHURCH AND HIS MOTHER AND THOSE WHO STATE HE WAS A SAINT GIVE HIM A GLORIFIED FUNERAL AT THE CHURCH'S EXPENSE, ITS UNJUSTIFIED. HE CAME BACK HIDDEN IN A COFFIN WITH A SUSPENSE ORDER HANGING OVER HIS HEAD AND COURT CASE WHICH HE DID NOT WANT TO FACE UP TO. DID HE NOT THING OF HIS MOTHER, AND SURELY SHE IS NOT OUR RESPONSIBILITY. HE LEFT HER TO CARRY HIS GUILT.
This is not ‘hounding’ of FM and I feel I must agree with the previous blogger. All you people who come to FM’s defence have no idea. A child must have written the last entry on the blog, you can’t possibly think because his dead that is the end. Justice has not been done. Yes he will face God but the Church has to face up to the truth and seek to address the wrong FM has done to his victims. Until that happens this we go on and on. Please stop all the ridiculous statements about FM in the after life and grow up and face the harsh reality.
If this accusation is true, (which is the troubling issue...not knowing!!!)-I think it's awful for the victims-that a priest could damage someone and then die before being officially found guilty.
It must be awful for anyone concerned to be left alone... without their community also knowing what this man has done.
The pure vulnerability that may have got the person into this situation is still protecting the awful truth...peoples reactions!
The church of course has a responsibility to uphold the church's reputation, but almost obviously, I think lay people would respect the organisation more if they were to be honest about their failings much like other caring professions ie:teaching.
How could anyone affected continue to respect the church if the church does not support their bravery in coming forward.
Perhaps they have, but if this priest did the crime then others need to know that the church supported the vitim and are courageous enough to 'stand up' and be counted- for failings much like any other organisation.
Most of the damage done for the church is the dishonesty and apparent disregard from those whom one would turn to when the chips are really down!!!
Guilty or not the man is tarnished. The church needs to publicly acknowledge the faults of mankind-even those who have signed up for a life of God.
There are failings in the selection process and failings in the supervision of priests from all religions.
Let's hope that the Catholic faith will hold onto the truth and be accountable,hence honest-in order for its flock to follow its shepherd!!!
There is opportunity here for the catholic church to hold onto some credibility...not only for the congregaion but for those priests who have to carry the can!!!
I'm trying to find information about the case involving an ex headmaster of Yardley Court School in Tonbridge (when it was still situated in Yardley Park Road). He was sacked & tried for sexually abusing pupils there when i was a pupil (my memory is terrible, but i think it would've been between 1984 & 1986). His name was Mr John Barber & was headmaster at the same time as Michael Bickmore. I've found evidence of Michael Bickmore being Headmaster at the same time as a John Bickmore which i found confusing...Basically i'm not having much luck finding out waht his sentence was & if it was reported in the local papers or on the local news? Any info/links would be very helpfull.
Thank you....
Re John Barber, he was joint headmaster at the time you mention and my son was at Yardley from (approx) '84 to '89. He was a good teacher and was respected by both parents and pupils. The allegations made against him had no foundation and that was that. However, the process took a long time and caused Barber great anguish during the 'waiting' period. Needless to say his teaching days were over in any event as a result of the allegations but he eventually found a job with I believe the Folkestone Chamber of Commerce concerning cross-channel trade, tourism etc.
I hope that this bit of information helps.
The Courier did report on the matter.
It was announced on Sunday by the Bishop that FM did commit suicide and had left some suicide notes on the scene. There are couple of unjustified questions that need ans here
a. The bishop takes up so much of his valuable time to justify FM to us why? Do you think any of us would be worthy of his time unless we were going to ruin the church's name. Wasn't it the Bishop and father Leo and many that said FM didn't wasn't guilty and neither would he take his life!
b. We should be privy to the notes as they must clearly state what FM did and may clear his name and help us understand.
c. If FM committed suicide its a sin and why did the church give him a glorified funeral before the verdict of his death? Do you think any one of us would be given the service he had after he was guilty even if not proven in a court of law the notes and suicide is proof that indeed he was a coward.
d. The church are now denying that FM had a history of this type of behavior, but he did and they knew it so they dumped him in little ol tonbridge hidden away, when he was due for major promotion as a monseigneur to the next stage of cardinal. So for 19 yrs he kept a dark and hidden secret, knowingly by the church, they allowed him to continue putting our children and ourselves at risk - this is criminal in itself and should be viewed by all as a dishonest and malicious way to treat us, even till the day he was suspended last year, they protected him and gave him a glorified funeral why?
e. Did FM even have a CRB check, no one knows not even the staff who protected him in the office.
f. How do we know the new priest is clean, have we seen his FULL CRB check? We need assurances this time round. The big question is why is this priest leaving Abbey wood where he needs to service the area which is in need as he is the governor of the catholic school? Is this the right person for us, given that he has demanded so much expense to be showered on himself with relocation and expensive refurbishment, where is money coming from? Also, the priest has visited so many times but not once has he made the effort to stop into the church and meet us the people that matter, but what matters his accommodation more!
g. We need better assurance of checks and that he is genuine. We need new and honest staff, voted in by us not chosen by FM who they protected. The staff must have seen odd things going on and kept quiet why? Therefore New better staff and rid of the old. If we have to pay outsiders so be it, as we can clearly afford refurbishment then we can afford honest staff.
Remember all, that the Bishop and the church would never protected you and I in the same way they protected and glorified FM, neither would the Bishop want to know you and I in our time of grief and strife yet he gave time to a suicidal sinner and tried to justify his actions, even before the inquest and after is beyond shame and disgrace to the church. Be assured if we committed suicide the church would NOT want to know us neither bury us, so the message is that the church were protecting FM, whilst they kept him hidden away, they brought him hidden in a casket and allowed him to live alone to write his will and suicidal notes, do you not think for one moment they knew he was guilty and it was they very reason they hid him alone to get rid of the shame and aided him in taking his life which was the inevitable wasn't it. FM was not mentally ill, he made sure all his paper work was up to date and the church knew what he was up to and he took his life because he knew that was what they expected?
Anyone reading this blog must be wondering - are all catholic communities like this? Is it usual for them to be unforgiving and make judgements without having all the facts? Would anyone like to comment?
It is true that Fr Michael was not universally popular, but would it have hurt for people to wait for a verdict before giving vent to all their grievances and vindictive, mean spirited comments? Why did so many people go to the church if he was so awful?
I totally agree with the last blog. Perhaps FM was aided in his final days and knew the church wanted rid of him. If he was losing weight and was depressed they certainty didn't care for him or protect him! I know for sure the Bishop wouldn't give me so much time to bury me neither to praise my name or announce my death verdict! The Bishop should come clean and the church in the reasons why FM was placed in our parish for 19years putting us at risk indeed all the potential children/adults he used for his gains - 19 years is just unforgivable for the pain the church have caused to these innocent people and ourselves, where is our compensation in a wasted 19years of horrid fake and nasty FM who was allowed to enter our lives like a devil - do we not want justice and a full investigation and everyone involved in FM's life, including the Bishop should also be suspended for putting all our lives at risk and harm. We should demand that his CRB details be published with his notes to reassure us. I don't think he had a CRB check and lost his promotion when he worked in London, due to his bad behavior then. It beggars questions why he came from London, an aspiring candidate, to our community where he would never be promoted but allowed to carry on abusing our community and you all went to praise him at his funeral - where is your conscience.
clearly you don't know the man for who he is. He ruined my family, ripping it to absolute shreds.
Blogger Aug 26th, you must come out and state very clearly what the church did to you and your family, we feed your pain and sorry and you cannot suffer alone, please let us help - are you the victim that reported FM to the authorities in that he abused members of your family? Please don't suffer alone, we too have suffered and many too.
The previous blogger before you stated we suffered for 19years - lets put an end to this and expose what this horrid man did to us and defy the bishop and his cohorts.
We have a new 'handsome' priest, and everyone is saying he is a breath of fresh air. This is not the way to go about it but to have every insurance that this man is CRB CHECKED AND IS NOT HIDING IN OUR CHURCH FOR REASONS THAT WE DON'T KNOW!!! He left a very good parish and that is very unclear why? It appears he wanted to be with coruscation people and was not very cultural in mixing with coloureds? Perhaps a snob. We hope being 'handsome' is not going to cause some scandal is it or is he already running away from one?
I do say we agree in our household that we definitely need new staff in the church and all should be sacked and replaced. We agree the Bishop and his cohorts should be suspended for placing such a nasty man in our presence for 19years, knowing that he had a past that was a danger to us all.
To the bloggers of Aug 23rd, 8.23 am & 7.36pm - clearly you have very specific questions which you feel remain unanswered. Why don't you address them in person to Bishop John instead of sending them off into cyberspace where they will never be answered other than by endless, vacuous speculation. When Bishop John visited the Parish a few weeks ago, he invited all those who had concerns, unanswered questions or who are distressed in any way by all that has happened in Corpus Christi, to meet and talk with him. Why don't you do so?? He was talking to you.
The new Priest has arrived and the parish have another new start, but the victims are left high and dry. This blog has been used to express lots of different emotions and I feel there are no wrong or right statements only people with a need to off load. If you are a victim and have helped the police with their investigation please consider a way of us making contact. Only the victims and their families can understand the intense pain of the last year.
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