US EditionCatholic Church Controversy Shakes Remote Northern Arizona Town
CONCHO, ARIZONA, JUL 24 – The Diocese of Gallup cited unauthorized activities despite local support while the group relocated and opened a new school serving K-12 students in nearby Vernon.
- Recently, Bishop James S. Wall ordered the lay group to leave parish housing and cease leading liturgy and teaching, in the village of Concho in the Arizona high desert.
- Years ago, the men arrived in Concho from the Canons Regular of Immaculate Conception in Santa Paula, and leaders at the Diocese of Gallup say they misrepresented themselves as a religious order.
- Amid community decline, they revived Concho’s historic Christmas fiesta, reflecting economic and cultural revitalization.
- Amid the backlash, community voices rose in defense of the group, and Suzanne Hammons, diocese spokesperson, said they are `not afraid of liability` and must follow official channels to ensure safety.
- Last month, the League of the Blessed Sacrament moved to Vernon about 25 miles south of Concho, and will maintain a presence in Concho with shops and a radio station by starting a K-12 Catholic school.
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26 Articles
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A group of Catholics revitalized a remote Arizona village before the diocese ordered them to leave
A small group of Catholics has sparked controversy in the remote village of Concho, Arizona. Known as the League of the Blessed Sacrament, the group has revitalized the struggling rural community over the past four years.
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