Hoboken Priest Suspended by Archbishop for Continued Support of LGBT Advocacy Groups

Posted on September 2, 2016 in hNOW, News

Father Warren Hall, who had been serving at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Hoboken and St. Lawrence Church in Weehawken, has been suspended by Newark Archbishop John Myers, effective immediately.

Fr. Warren Hall (via Facebook)

“I was notified yesterday that the Archbishop has suspended me from priestly ministry and I have to leave my residence at the parish in Hoboken,” said Hall, via a statement on his Facebook page.

“I was told this is being done because of my continued involvement with LGBT groups that he says are in opposition to the church. [Archbishop Myers] didn’t name them but I have been involved with PFLAG, New Ways Ministry, Dignity, Gays-Against-Guns, and the LGBT Community Center. He says I’m causing confusion for Catholic people.”

Hall was previously removed from his position as chaplain at Seton Hall University for a Facebook post in which Hall showed support for the anti-bullying/LGBT-friendly “NOH8” campaign.

“My thought was that I was actually helping people, especially LGBT Catholics. All I ever said was that we are loved by God since he created us and that we should stick with the Church because reform is happening under Pope Francis. Yes, it’s slow but it’s happening.”

Msgr. Bob Meyer, pastor at Sts. Peter & Paul, said, “On behalf of our local Catholic Community, I express my gratitude to Fr Warren for the service that he provided to our parish through the celebration of Holy Mass, the administration of the Sacraments and his presence and love among us.”

Meyer added, “Although he may no longer be able to serve our parish, I ask you to join me in keeping Father Warren in your prayers.”

Meanwhile Archbishop Myers, whose tenure has been marred by extensive criticism for his perceived mishandling of sex scandals and lavish spending habits, is due to retire this year.

Archbishop John J. Myers

Tags: Sts. Peter & Paul