USA: Anti-vaccine priest removed from ministry

Fr James Altman, screenshot

An American priest who attracted controversy over his numerous public statements on politics, racism, feminism, immigration and the coronavirus pandemic, has been removed from ministry by his diocesan bishop.

Fr James Altman, parish priest of St James the Less Parish in La Crosse, Wisconsin, posted one video online last August in which he said no Catholic should support the Democrat Party. He has decried the "climate change hoax," and criticised a program to provide accommodation for undocumented child migrants. On several occasions he has protested over Covid safety measures and called for churches to remain open through the pandemic.

In messages to parishioners in April parish bulletins he claimed the Covid-19 vaccines are an "experimental" use of "a genetic altering substance that modifies YOUR BODY - YOUR Temple of the Holy Spirit." and urged them not to have the vaccine.

For about a year, the La Crosse Diocesan Bishop William Callahan tried to discuss matters privately with Fr Altman. He then asked him to offer his resignation. Fr Altman refused to resign and said he would seek to challenge it canonically.

On 9 July, the following diocesan statement was issued:

"The obligation of a bishop is to ensure that all who serve the faithful are able to do so while unifying and building the Body of Christ, Bishop William Patrick Callahan, in accordance with the norms of canon law, has issued a decree for the removal of Fr James Altman as pastor of St James the Less Parish."

"The decree is effective immediately and for an indeterminate period of time. During this time Fr Altman, must refrain from exercising the function of pastor...

"Bishop Callahan and his representatives, have spent over a year, prayerfully and fraternally, working toward a resolution related to ongoing public and ecclesial concerns...

"The diocese will arrange for the continued pastoral care of the parishioners at the parish.

"The bishop and all the leadership of the diocese asks for the consideration of respect, safety and prayers at this time for all involved."

The bishop's decree means Fr Atlman can only celebrate Mass in private with no members of the faithful present, except his parents. He may no longer preach nor assist at marriages. He may not administer baptisms, even for family members, without permission from the bishop or the relevant vicar.

Fr Altman must reside within the La Crosse diocese and regularly meet with its vicar for clergy at least once a month until further notice. The decree invites him to make a 30-day spiritual retreat to allow him "the possibility to spiritually heal and recharge and to address the issues that caused the issuance of this decree."

Fr Altman said he is going to fight his dismissal. Some clergy and parishioners are supporting him. So far supporters have donated $722,000 to his cause.