Statement of Fr. Thomas Euteneuer: setting the record straight

The following is the complete text of Fr. Euteneuer’s statement:
January 31, 2011

It is with great sadness, but also with a certain measure of relief, that I can now respond to the many inquiries about my departure as president of Human Life International (HLI) at the end of August 2010. It has been painful for me to remain silent in light of the ongoing speculation, particularly when much of it assigned blame to those who were, in fact, blameless.  I am thankful to be able to set the record straight so that speculation can stop and blame can be placed right where it belongs - with me.

The circumstances that led to my departure from HLI were related exclusively to my own decisions and conduct within the ministry of exorcism that I carried out independently from my responsibilities at HLI. The vast majority of my decisions and conduct, both personally and in this ministry, were morally sound and consistent with all standards of pastoral care of persons.  Moreover, they were all motivated exclusively by my desire to give priestly assistance to people in great spiritual distress. I must acknowledge, however, that one particularly complex situation clouded my judgment and led me to imprudent decisions with harmful consequences, the worst of which was violating the boundaries of chastity with an adult female who was under my spiritual care.

I take full responsibility for my own poor judgment, my weakness and my sinful conduct that resulted from it. I offer no excuse for my professional or moral failures, nor do I shift the blame to anyone else. I state without reserve that I am deeply sorry for my actions.  I have personally apologized, where possible, to anyone I have harmed.  I am saddened beyond words for my fall, not only because of the harm done to my priesthood and my family, but also because of the harm done to all others who are affected, to the faith of those who placed so much trust in me and our Church, and to the pro-life movement so populated with heroic, faithful people. I must face and make amends for the disappointment I have caused.  I have, of course, asked for God’s forgiveness and I have confidence in his boundless mercy.  I am now grateful to be able to publicly ask for all of yours as well.
The entire statement is available on LifeSiteNews

The spiritual warfare that he has to endure would crush any one of us. God permits human weakness to bring about greater humility.  Let's all pray a rosary for Fr. Euteneuer today. 

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Thank you Fr. Euteneuer for your honesty, clarity, repentance, and willingness to make amends the best you can and to obey the direction of your bishop. These actions are much appreciated and so needed in a fallen world.

I am sorry for your lapse but I am not all together surprised. You, more than most, have a target on your head as you are fighting against darkness and principalities. The darkness hates the light and truth and they hate the work you've done to defend life and caste out demons. They hate what you do for God.

I am sorry for the misunderstandings, speculations and in appropriate behavior of others toward you, your family, HLI co-workers and the woman involved. Keep the faith, know that God's mercy is boundless, your faithful witness to the gospel, life issues and fighting against evil is desperately needed. May all involved be healed from any pain and may all come to have peace and turn their focus back to God and his saving work.

Thank you, God bless you and know that you are being held up in prayer and sacrifice.

Melissa

p.s. Will you be allowed to re-release your books under HLI or another publisher, possibly Ignatius Press or Sophia Institute Press? Your books are good work and need to be shared with the world.