Last year Ms. Doyle spoke with Father Lemmert about the backlash he
experienced after exposing a case in New York, and he later told her
that talking about his experiences was “very therapeutic.” The group was
initially conceived more as a confidential support group for the
whistle-blowers themselves.
“I joined the group,” said Father Lemmert, “because I had been badly
ostracized because I blew the whistle. There was no support out there,
and this group has been a lifeline.”
Until last week, he intended to keep his involvement in the group under
wraps for fear of repercussions. But at the meeting Father Lemmert
announced, “I just decided to stand up and be counted.”
The group has evolved to take on a more policy-oriented role, drafting
the letter to the new pope with six suggestions for action. They sent
the letter in late April to the pope and several Vatican officials, but
have not received any response yet.