Dear Argus Editor,

I was deeply saddened when I heard the news that Father Bill Wallace had been fired from his position as the Catholic Chaplin at Wesleyan University. For several years as the Deacon of the Church of St. Mary in Portland, I have had the privilege of assisting Father Bill at many masses and church activities. Besides being an outstanding homilist, Father Bill has always been passionate about bringing the love of God to those of us who have been fortunate to be in his presence. Father Bill is especially gifted in his ministry to serve and inspire young people.

I am told that Father Bill was fired because the administrators who supervise the chaplains at Wesleyan found Father Bill “not to be a team player.” For those of us blessed to know Father Bill, we know that he is a man of truth and of integrity, a man who speaks out if he sees injustice or people being disrespected. 

My condolences to the students at Wesleyan and the entire Wesleyan community for losing the faith-filled presence of a man who’s kind and compassionate heart had previously enriched and blessed your University. Father Bill was offered a monetary buyout that he refused as he wants his job back as the Catholic chaplain. Maybe with enough prayers and some refreshing humility on the part of the administrators who fired Father Bill, this unfair decision can be rectified. For the powers to be, please rehire Father Bill as the Catholic Chaplain.

Peace Be With You.

Deacon Dana Garry is the Deacon of the Church of St. Mary in Portland, CT, can be reached at 860-301-7246 and danagarry@yahoo.com