Critics Say Archdiocese Targets Outspoken Priests

The forced resignation of Father Walter Cuenin at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish in Newton is the latest and most high profile ouster of a priest who's been openly critical of the Archdiocese of Boston.

Other outspoken priests lost their parishes as a result of recent church closures and remain unassigned in an Archdiocese which often voices concern about a shortage of clergy.

While church officials decline to comment on what they call "matters of personnel," some critics charge the Archdiocese is carrying out a vendetta against priests who speak out against its policies.