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To: Priests, deacons, Tribunal Advocates, chancery staff
From: Fr. Paul Burke, J.C.L., former adjutant judicial vicar, Metropolitan Tribunal
My Dear Friends and Colleagues:
As you know, I have been navigating many health challenges over the last several years. I have a condition called MSA or multiple system atrophy which is a degenerative brain disease, meaning it causes parts of your brain to deteriorate. The disease disrupts bodily movement and the body’s autonomic processes like breathing, digestion and blood pressure. There is no cure. I have had the disease for about ten years now. Since March of this year, I noticed some significant changes. However, this past May, while on a pilgrimage to Lourdes with the Order of Malta, things became critical. I have attached a letter that I sent out to friends giving an update on what happened.
I have spoken with Archbishop Hartmayer at length about my current situation on several occasions. He has been a real blessing! We agreed that my primary focus needs to be my health and to maintain some quality of life for as long as possible. Consequently, I asked to be relieved of my duties at the Tribunal. He has granted my request.
The archbishop was kind enough to share this news with our priests at the recent convocation. And now, I am sharing the same news with you.
I want to thank each of you for your friendship and support which mean a great deal to me. Over these last few years, I have worked closely with so many of you. I am grateful for having been given the opportunity to serve in this ministry with all of you.
Let us pray for each other. May God bless each one you and your loved ones!
In Christ’s Love,
Fr. Paul
