After Missing Services, Immaculate Heart of Mary Pastor Apologizes to Congregation

After missing several services, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church's pastor apologized to his congregation this week, saying he felt "humiliated" and "deeply sorry" for disappointing his church.

The Rev. Msgr. James Schillinger didn't offer a reason for his absence from the church's Mass two weeks ago – and several other acknowledged services – in a printed apology in the church's newsletter dated Sunday.

From Schillinger's statement:

The pain and disappointment felt by our community is totally my fault because I failed to appear as scheduled for the 11:30 am Mass. I want you to know how very sorry I am.

On Tuesday, after everyone returned from the long holiday weekend, one of our staff members approached me and said that many parishioners were concerned for my well being. I am touched by that concern. Some had said that this was not the first time and that they were disappointed in that I seemed to show no remorse. All I can say is that I know all too well that this has happened before. And I assure you, I have felt humiliated and have been deeply sorry every single time.

Schillinger has led the parish on Briarcliff Road since 2002 and has overseen a transformation of the church and its , including the construction of an entirely new church. In one of his final acts in March, Pope Benedict XVI named Schillinger and eight other Atlanta-area priests Chaplains of His Holiness Mosignors, an honorific title.

But his time at the parish hasn't been without controversy either. Schillinger after former school Principal Tricia DeWitt resigned. Many parents said they believed Schillinger forced DeWitt from her post and publicly protested the pastor.