An astute supporter of Gaylord Diocesan Watch has noted that Father Bryan Medlin has disappeared from the listing of clergy for the Diocese of Gaylord. The tragic case of Fr. Medlin has been reviewed extensively by Gaylord Diocesan Watch. As priest assignments and changes occur over the next few weeks, the absence of Fr. Medlin from the roster of Diocesan priests will be notable.
Unfortunately, the full story of Fr. Medlin’s past and present may never be known. Who vetted him to be a priest? What type of education, formation, and oversight did Fr. Medlin have up to and after his ordination? What type of support does a priest get these days? Prayer is important, but so is social and physical health maintenance for such a demanding job. We will continue to monitor this situation.
Fr. Medlin does not cease to be a priest, even if he is relieved of all priestly faculties and is laicized. Ordination to the priesthood is a sacrament and leaves an indelible mark on the soul. However, based on his actions, it is reasonable and necessary to conclude that Fr. Medlin is not a candidate to return to the active parish priesthood, nor any type of regular priestly function. Let us keep him and all priests in our prayers.