Diocese of San Joaquin Press Release

July 21, 2006

Diocese of San Joaquin Clarifies Rumors

We know that many of you are aware of certain rumors that have been floating recently indicating that four California bishops are making charges against the Bishop of San Joaquin that might lead to a presentment(an ecclesiastical trial).

To our knowledge, no action leading to a presentment has taken place.

However, four California bishops have requested an investigation by the Title IV Review Committee.

According to a communication from Bishop Dorsey Henderson, who heads up the Review Committee, the Committee itself is still being formed. For our part, the Chancellors have already responded to the initial allegations by challenging the appropriateness of the specific Canon Law [IV.9] being used to bring charges. In short, these allegations are neither relevant nor justified.

Bishop John-David Schofield
San Joaquin, California