"Father, Don't Forgive Me, For I Have Not Sinned..."

Such was the attitude of Roman priest Richard Arko, as he was sentenced April 6 for growing 35 marijuana plants in his church rectory. "The judge suspended a two-year prison sentence, ordered Arko to perform 100 hours of community service and undergo random drug testing during his two years of probation." This was reported in the April 7 issue of the Akron, Ohio 'Beacon Journal,' in an article titled, "Priest Gets Probation in Drug Scandal."

Although Arko plead guilty for purposes of legal expediency, he remains unrepentant about marijuana. At court yesterday he said:

"I look forward to the day when this particular crime will not be punishable."

Arko also made reference to his prayer life. The article reported:

"He said he prays for the day the state of Ohio recognizes the positive uses of marijuana."

"Arko requested a leave of absence from the diocese and he said in court that his return to the priesthood is unlikely."

Police believe Arko has been cultivating marijuana for 10 years - and Catholics believe Arko, or any Roman priest, has the power to command Christ to turn Himself into wafers and wine.

May God use this latest episode to open the eyes of more Catholics to the phony nature of the Roman priesthood. Let Catholics confess Catholicism as sin, forsake Rome, and receive Christ by faith ALONE