NEW YORK, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Cardinal Edward Egan, head of the New York archdiocese, defended himself against charges made by an anonymous group of priests at a meeting with his top aides.
The meeting of the cardinal's Priest Council, a group of 30 that includes the top clergy in the archdiocese, took place at the cardinal's residence and lasted for more than two hours, the New York Daily News reported. Those who attended said that Egan defended himself point by point against claims that he is arrogant, vindictive and cruel and insensitive to the needs of priests under his care.
"We are appalled that the letter was sent anonymously, and that it can and has been used by those who seek to damage the church," said the Rev. Richard Adams of St. Agnes Church in Manhattan. "As today's meeting has shown, it is possible to meet and discuss any issue with Cardinal Egan."
The archdiocese includes The Bronx and Staten Island as well as Manhattan and seven New York state counties north of the city. Its archbishop is automatically one of the top Catholic leaders in the country.
