Letter to the Editor

The subtitle of Moliere’s classic play, Tartuffe, is Imposter as in religious imposter. Key West and the Florida Keys are not immune from religious imposters. Most recently, there have been two cases of grifters and scammers posing as Catholic Church missionaries soliciting funds which have been brought to my attention and to the attention of law enforcers. The Monroe County Attorney’ office suggested that I bring it to your attention.

Two claimed to be nuns. They clearly did their research. They knew where all the business offices were located and they knew of Key West’s gratitude for service of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary and thus, claimed to be from Canada. To let you know, any Catholic religious or priest needs to ask permission to serve or to solicit through the Archdiocese of Miami where upon they are vetted for their apostolic legitimacy and for their criminal background. If cleared, it is up to the local pastor to give permission or not to solicit funds. Given our present pastoral commitments and multitudinous building projects, I will not be granting permission anytime in the near or distant future for such external religious solicitations!

Also, there is a person who travels around town with her luggage who claims to be selling rosary beads for St. Mary at the price of $20. Again, this is a scam. If ever you have questions about someone seeking funds for the Catholic Church, please call the Parish office.

Edna O’Brien’s most recent novel Little Red Chairs reminds us that religious imposters are not merely annoying but, can be quite dangerous. Unfortunately, they and their danger are not fictional.

Sincerely,

Fr. John C. Baker

Saint Mary Star of the Sea Basilica

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