Father Kevin Matthews

The Catholic Parish of Cleve,

P.O. Box 82,

CLEVE 4540

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Dear Father,

Greetings! Thank you for your prompt response to my letter!

You did not address the issue when you referred to our Order as "so-called". This in itself has a connotation of a maybe, or a fabricated establishment. If I said a "so-called" Doctor of the Divinity - like yourself - what would that conjure up? I, nor the Order of Saint Charbel, or this Commission should be considered a light matter, as very sincere souls are involved - souls who are very dedicated to Jesus Christ no matter what side of the fence they may stand.

Secondly: we are not a Pious Association nor a Confraternity, as neither of these avenues have souls who take Vows - nor is there an official formal Consecration taken to follow a set life style. The Canon Laws that govern those, and an Order or Congregation, are vastly different, and you as a Canon Lawyer should know this.

The Order of Saint Charbel is a New Form of Consecrated Life under the Canon Law, and this approval can only came from Rome in its final stages, and must be fostered by the Local Ordinary. If a bishop of a Diocese does approve the Order then this is only a preliminary step to foster it and nurture it for Rome's decision. It was, and is for this reason that I have sought Approval for the Order since 1988, via the Bishop of my Diocese, in spite of Bishop Murray's Pastoral Statement against us on 8th December, 1984.

Yes, I am fully aware of the length of time for an Investigation and Approval, but having said that, it also means - without judgement or prejudice - hence a Commission. The Bishop's action and the previous Bishop's displays clear signs of prejudice and pre-empted judgement upon my work and claim, without an official hearing.

Also the Press is constantly used as a powerful collaborator for the Church, against my claim. It is for this reason I have been asking for a Commission to be set up since 1984.

To say that we have no formal recognition, is not correct. It is very clear to me that you have not studied any of the official documents - of which there are many - where we have received some recognition for the Order and the "works of mercy".

For your information, which will be forwarded to you shortly, a Bishop friend went to see the Pope on the 18th May, 2000, to discuss the Approval of the Order of Saint Charbel. I am awaiting his return and report. I enclose the latest Message for your information.

I wish God's Blessing upon you.

Yours truly in Christ,

WILLIAM KAMM

MODERATOR