MCMECHEN, W.Va. (AP) - Supporters of Bishop Donohue High School in McMechen are turning to a regional advocate for Catholic parishioner’s rights in efforts to stop the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston from closing the school.
Media outlets report Canon lawyer Philip Gray spoke Monday to a crowd of Donahue alumni and parents, offering his aid in combating the diocese’s decision to close the school at the end of the academic year.
A canon lawyer specializes in canon law, or the code of ecclesiastical laws governing the Catholic Church.
The Most Rev. Michael Bransfield announced the decision to close Donohue last month, citing declining enrollment as a chief issue.
Gray says the steps available to school supporters include voicing complaints to the diocese, awaiting a response and, if necessary, appealing the decision to the Holy See.
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