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As parents, parishioners, members of the Saint Leo the Great community, and the Monmouth County Catholic community at large, we believe that recent events require immediate action to protect the integrity of our parish and school. The following letter will be submitted to the Bishop of Trenton, calling for the removal of Reverend John T. Folchetti as Pastor of Saint Leo the Great in order to restore trust, accountability, and transparency in our leadership:

"We, the undersigned parents, parishioners, and concerned members of the Saint Leo the Great community, write to you with grave concern regarding recent events at our parish and school.

On August 8, 2025, a civil lawsuit was filed in Monmouth County Superior Court by the Church of Saint Leo the Great against its former Director of Finance, Operations and Development, alleging the misappropriation of more than $1.5 million in parish operating funds over at least six years. These allegations, if true, reveal a severe failure of financial oversight within the parish.

As Pastor, Reverend John T. Folchetti has repeatedly stated that he holds ultimate responsibility for the parish and its school. Yet this alleged misappropriation occurred under his leadership and oversight. Regardless of the outcome of the case against the former employee, the failure to detect and prevent such a massive financial loss over many years has gravely undermined the trust of our parish and school community.

In addition, parishioners and parents have not received timely, direct communication from parish leadership regarding this lawsuit or its potential implications for the parish and school. Tuition increases and fundraising efforts continue without transparency about how our community’s funds are safeguarded.

For the good of the parish and school, and in the interest of restoring trust, transparency, and accountability, we respectfully request that you remove Reverend John T. Folchetti from his role as Pastor of the Church of Saint Leo the Great and seek new school and parish administration.

Our children deserve a parish and school led with integrity, openness, and sound stewardship. We ask for your leadership in ensuring that this change is made promptly for the future of our faith community."