? The resignation of a Darien priest who allegedly stole from his church has a Catholic watchdog group calling for more public oversight.

Father Michael Jude Fay resigned this month after an investigation revealed he allegedly stole $200,000 from the church to support his life with a man. Fay also stepped down from the Sexual Misconduct Board. Marge Hickey is a devout Catholic and member of the national group Voice of the Faithful. Hickey questions why church leaders are not elected to these posts, instead of being appointed. Hickey adds that she is not upset about Fay?s sexual orientation, but that he is accused of stealing.

The Diocese of Bridgeport disputes the accusation that there are too few lay people making decisions. The diocese is moving cautiously to replace Fay on the Sexual Misconduct Board. Monsignor William Scheyd, from New Canaan, has taken over Fay?s administrative duties at St. John Roman Catholic Church.

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