STEP VI OF XII: MEET WITH THE PRIEST

This is the shortest step of our 12-Point Program. The steering committee simply sits down with the priest to tell him (1) that the chapel is to become a membership corporation run by an elected lay board, to which he will be subordinate, and (2) that he is to seek conditional ordination if he was ordained by "One-Hand Dan." Then let him know that, if he refuses to accede to this sensible petition, you will withhold financial support and cancel your pledges.

Make it clear that the steering committee will use all its influence and resources to mobilize the entire chapel in an effort to make the priest see reason or face insolvency. Be sure he understands that no threats, imprecations, or empty appeals to canon law will deter the committee from its just objective. Explain that everyone is prepared to live a Catholic life without a priest in the event of his refusal.

Then give him one hour to make his decision.