Statement from the Chaldean Patriarchate Regarding the Diocese of St. Peter the Apostle, SanDiego, USA
Some members of the Diocese of St. Peter, San Diego, USA, have filed complaints concerning Bishop Emmanuel Shaleta in relation to the mishandling of certain diocesan funds and allegations of inappropriate relationships. This information has circulated on social media platforms before all facts were fully clarified.
Allegations or complaints require careful and objective review and should not be resolved outside of the appropriate process. The situation has prompted a range of responses from those who devote themselves to the diocese. All perspectives are being taken seriously and require careful review, proper documentation, and time so that the truth may be fully and fairly discerned.
The Apostolic See, with the knowledge and cooperation of the Patriarchate, has conducted thorough investigations in order to ascertain the facts and reach a just and impartial decision, so that no one may be wronged.
The Patriarchate calls upon all the faithful to respond with prudence, charity, and prayer—especially during this sacred season of Great Lent.
Statement from the Chaldean Patriarchate on the Eparchy of Urmia, Iran and Church Property
During the period between the retirement of His Excellency Bishop Thomas Meram from the leadership of the Eparchy of Urmia and the subsequent delayed installation of His Excellency Bishop Imad Khoshaba as Bishop of Tehran and Patriarchal Administrator for Urmia, certain properties belonging to the Church were sold without proper authorization by a deacon who was temporarily serving as the eparchy’s administrator.
We are grateful to the local Iranian authorities for their prompt response. The individual involved was detained and later released on bail as part of ongoing legal procedures.
Under the supervision of Bishop Imad Khoshaba, together with legal advisors and local authorities, a thorough investigation is underway—mandated in writing by His Beatitude Patriarch Sako—to clarify the circumstances, ensure accountability, and take all appropriate steps to recover the Church’s properties.
As we enter into this Lent more fully, we deepen our commitment to prayer, fasting, and charity, and entrusting this situation to the mercy and wisdom of God, who alone knows the hearts of all. Let us pray for the Chaldean Church, that the Lord may grant healing where there is hurt, clarity where there is uncertainty, and unity in the bond of peace.