Editor’s note: After this report was posted by Catholic News Agency/National Catholic Register, Dr. Edward Peters, who teaches canon law and Latin at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, announced on X: “My Sacred Heart Major Seminary teaching contract was terminated by Abp. Weisenburger this week. I have retained counsel. Except to offer my prayers for those affected by this news and to ask for theirs in return, I have no further comment at this time.”
National Catholic Register, Jul 25, 2025 / 13:53 pm (CNA).
Prominent Catholic theologian Ralph Martin says Detroit’s new archbishop told him he fired him from the archdiocese’s seminary faculty over undefined “concerns about my theological perspectives.”
Martin, 82, who had taught at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit since 2002, said Archbishop Edward Weisenburger told him Wednesday he “was terminating my position at the seminary effective immediately.”
“When I asked him for an explanation, he said he didn’t think it would be helpful to give any specifics but mentioned something about having concerns about my theological perspectives,” Martin said in a written statement Thursday afternoon.
“This news came as a shock,” Martin said. “I have contributed much to the seminary over more than 23 years. I even helped introduce and lead, up until yesterday, our flagship pontifical degree program, the Licentiate of Sacred Theology Degree in the New Evangelization.”
Martin did not offer comment about the archbishop, who was installed March 18.
“I want what I say about this situation to be truthful, but I also do not want to unnecessarily contribute to current polarization in the Church,” Martin said.
A spokesman for the archbishop declined comment on Thursday.
Martin and another theologian, Eduardo Echeverria, 74, were fired on Wednesday. Echeverria, who taught philosophy and systematic theology, confirmed his firing Thursday when asked by the National Catholic Register, CNA’s sister news partner, but declined further comment, citing a nondisclosure agreement.
Both men have criticized Pope Francis in the past for what they described as his theologically ambiguous or even misleading public statements.
In January 2024, Martin wrote a column for the Register arguing that an oral statement by Pope Francis during an interview expressing hope that hell is empty “plays into a widespread sympathy towards a heresy called ‘universalism,’ which teaches that perhaps — or certainly — everyone will eventually end up in heaven.”
Martin is the host of “The Choices We Face” on EWTN, which owns the Register and CNA, and has appeared on or hosted other EWTN programs.
He is also the founder and president of Renewal Ministries, which sponsors international missions and holds evangelizing events in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Toronto each year.
In his written statement Thursday, Martin described a busy summer schedule that continues despite his firing from the seminary.
“As I write this, I have just returned from a national deacons’ conference in St. Louis, Missouri. Tomorrow, I will leave for a conference in Birmingham, Alabama. Then, Bishop Scott McCaig and I will leave on Monday for a priests’ retreat supporting hundreds of priests in Cameroon,” Martin said.
When Pope Francis died April 21, Weisenberger called a press conference, during which he praised the late pontiff for his statements on climate change and immigration, among other things, and called Francis “the perfect man at the right time” and suggested he was “a saint.”
The archbishop also praised Pope Francis for his informal speaking style.
“No one could be that transparent and not be authentic,” Weisenburger said. “So many people in the world today, especially on the international stage, measure every word. He didn’t measure anything.”
“He spoke from the heart,” Weisenburger continued. “He spoke what was on his mind. And in that way, I think he kind of just reflected something of the great prophets of Scripture, who would allow the Holy Spirit to well up within them, speak the words, and let it fall on whatever ears would listen.”
A reporter asked the archbishop about how he deals with Catholic conservatives and traditionalists who thought Pope Francis was too liberal.
“Whenever anyone speaks prophetically, they’re always going to rub some people the wrong way,” Weisenburger said.
He said that when he ran into Catholics who didn’t like Pope Francis, they nevertheless accepted him as pope and prayed for him.
“Even the Holy Father himself would say the arms of the Church are broad and wide, and there’s a place for almost everybody. And so I think he was OK with people who ask questions,” Weiseburger said. “And I’m kind of OK with them, too.”
This story was first published by the National Catholic Register, CNA’s sister news partner, and has been adapted by CNA.
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On February 11, 2025, Weisenburger was appointed as Archbishop of Detroit, succeeding Allen Vigneron. His installation occurred on March 18, 2025.
Faculty Upheaval at Sacred Heart Major Seminary
In 2025, Weisenburger terminated three prominent professors of theology and Canon Law, Dr. Ralph Martin, Dr. Eduardo Echeverria, and Dr. Edward Peters, from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, effective immediately without explanation.
Dr. Ralph Martin had been a faculty member since 2002 and was instrumental in developing the seminary’s Licentiate of Sacred Theology Degree in the New Evangelization. A prominent figure in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal movement, Martin is the founder and president of Renewal Ministries, which organizes international missions and evangelization events in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Toronto, Ontario. He is also the host of The Choices We Face on EWTN and the author of several books, including Will Many Be Saved? What Vatican II Actually Teaches and Its Implications for the New Evangelization. Martin served as a consultor to the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization. In a statement, Martin expressed shock at his dismissal, noting that Weisenburger cited “concerns about my theological perspectives” without providing specifics.
Dr. Eduardo Echeverria taught philosophy and systematic theology at the seminary. A respected scholar, he authored works such as Jesus Christ, Scandal of Particularity: Vatican II, a Catholic Theology of Religions, Justification, and Truth. Echeverria confirmed his dismissal to the National Catholic Register , but declined further comment due to a nondisclosure agreement.
Dr. Edward Peters, J.C.D., a professor since 2005, and has been a leading canon lawyer known for his orthodox approach to ecclesiastical law. The first lay referendary of the Apostolic Signatura, he upholds orthodox Catholic doctrine through works like the English translation of the 1917 Code of Canon Law and Incrementa in Progressu 1983 Codicis Iuris Canonici. His website, canonlaw.info, and blog, In the Light of the Law, offer doctrinally sound commentary on issues like excommunication and marriage law, earning praise for his rigorous, faith-driven scholarship. On July 25, 2025, he publicly announced his termination on his X account: “My Sacred Heart Major Seminary teaching contract was terminated by Abp. Weisenburger this week. I have retained counsel. Except to offer my prayers for those affected by this news and to ask for theirs in return, I have no further comment at this time.”
The professors had previously critiqued certain statements and teachings of Pope Francis, particularly regarding theological clarity. For example, in January 2024, Martin wrote a column for the National Catholic Register arguing that Francis’s remarks expressing hope that hell is empty could inadvertently support the heresy of Universalism, which posits that all will be saved. The lack of a public explanation for the dismissals, particularly after the “Archbishop’s Gala,” an annual seminary fundraiser, led to speculation among Catholics about the motivations behind the decision, with some suggesting it reflected tensions over theological perspectives Weisenburger is personally at odds with while taking advantage of donors before terminating highly respected faculty members. A spokesman for the archdiocese declined to comment on the firings.
Positions
Extraordinary Form of the Mass
A month into his tenure as Archbishop of Detroit, Weisenburger announced that as of July 1, 2025, parishes would be prohibited from celebrating the Tridentine Mass, citing Traditionis custodes. The Mass will still be allowed in non-parochial settings like St. Joseph Shrine, which is under the care of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest as well as 4 other designated non-parochial settings. Weisenburger’s decison sparked deep backlash among Catholics, who called it a “bloodbath” and “a personal assault.”
On June 12, 2025, Weisenburger issued a decree, accompanied by the Traditionis Custodes Implementation Norms for the Archdiocese of Detroit and a list of designated regional locations for the liturgy. The decree restricted public celebrations of the liturgy to four non-parish sites: St. Joseph Shrine in Detroit (Central Region), St. Irene Church in Dundee (South Region), Our Lady of Orchard Lake Chapel in Orchard Lake (Northwest Region), and St. Joseph Church in Port Huron (Northeast Region). St. Joseph Shrine, was allowed to continue as a personal parish offering daily liturgies. Priests not assigned to these sites could request permission to celebrate the liturgy on weekdays in non-parish settings, but only without lay attendance and under strict conditions, including annual renewal and a written affirmation of the validity of the Novus Ordo liturgy.
Despite any universal liturgical precedent, the decree also prohibited the ad orientem posture in the Novus Ordo liturgy, mandating the use of freestanding altars in all parish churches within 180 days.
Additionally, despite the rubrics of the liturgy, Scripture readings in the liturgy were required to be in the vernacular using translations approved only by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. These norms were framed as balancing pastoral care for the faithful attached to the liturgy with fidelity to Francis’ call for the Novus Ordo to be the “unique expression of the lex orandi of the Roman Rite.”
Weisenburger’s actions sparked significant controversy. Critics argued that the measures marginalized vibrant communities, limited access to the liturgy, and suppressed legitimate liturgical diversity. Some expressed hope that Leo XIV, elected in April 2025, might relax these restrictions, as noted by Cardinal Raymond Burke’s appeal. Weisenburger defended the decree in a June 13 letter, emphasizing the need for unity under papal and episcopal leadership while acknowledging the “rich expressions of the Catholic faith in southeast Michigan.”
A report that a hamburger cafe in Detroit now offers ‘Big Beef Wisenburgers’ has not been able to be confirmed . . .
blessings and thanks.
What a great loss to those of us seeking the Truth. Why is it ok in the Church to end livelihoods of great followers of the Lord. I don’t understand how this improves Christ’s Church.
Ticks all the boxes concerning a continuation of Francis vindicated paranoia from beyond the grave! A hatred of a popular exposition of Catholic thought and action, plus a hatred of traditional catholicism, etc. etc!
J Mcallion: Not a “hatred of traditional catholicism”, I’m afraid. Just a hatred of orthodox Catholicism.
I find, however, when you really scratch below the surface with those who are inclined to tear the Church asunder, you find sins and agendas we’re now much too familiar with in the Catholic Church; we find the “Ghosts of McCarrick.”
A word to all seminarians at Sacred Heart Seminary: Before it’s too late, I’d encourage you to transfer out of Sacred Heart Seminary. If you stay, you will work for an Archdiocese that will constantly wage war against orthodoxy. Instead, make application to one of the better religious orders/congregations – ones that are noted for their orthodoxy. Just remember one simple fact: if you get ordained for the diocesan priesthood, you never will get to have a say in who your bishop is. Popes like Francis will be choosing your bishop. And be very clear, certain kinds of bishops can make your life hell. On the other hand, if you are a priest in a religious order and are fully professed, you will gèt a say in the election of your superiors. Now is the time to opt out of the diocesan priesthood.
The spongy theology of “l’m okay, you’re okay.” Recalling, here, the nun of years gone by who had just met favorably with her bishop—a successor of the apostles…
Said she with dewy eyes: “he affirmed my okayness!”
Not a problem. Francis is most likely being subject to the same scrutiny.
Jeremiah 23:2
“Therefore, thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, against the shepherds who shepherd my people: You have scattered my sheep and driven them away. You have not cared for them, but I will take care to punish your evil deeds.”
The Archbishop has provided a perfect example of Synodaling:
All are welcome! Let’s talk. Blah, blah, blah…
Purge the opposition.
Promote and protect sycophants.
Are we witnessing the rise of Franciscus II?
“Even the Holy Father himself would say the arms of the Church are broad and wide, and there’s a place for almost everybody. And so I think he was OK with people who ask questions,” Weiseburger said. “And I’m kind of OK with them, too.”
Except if you’re asking questions as to why you got fired…. Sorry, couldn’t resist
The need for reform is urgent when it is better to be a priest convicted for distributing child porn films working at the Vatican than a layman fired for faithfully teaching for decades at a Seminary.
Pope Leo, the ball is in your court….🎾
God’s Fool,
I agree. The need for reform is urgent. There are many synodaling members of the Uncle Ted McCarrick fraternity in the hierarchy.
Praying for Pope Leo to address this need in a prudent and effective way.
Traditional Catholicism, Sacred Tradition, Sacred Scripture, And The Teaching Of The Magisterium, Grounded In Sacred Tradition And Sacred Scripture, The Deposit Of Faith Christ Has Entrusted To His Church For The Salvation Of Souls, Is From God, the counterfeit magisterium that is attempting to subsist within The One Body Of Christ, while denying The Deposit Of Faith is from man, and is ipso facto anti Christ.
“Penance, Penance, Penance.”
“It is a sin to accommodate an occasion of sin, and cooperate with evil”, by accommodating a counterfeit magisterium that is anti Christ and calling it Catholic.
So now young people will have another reason to not attend a seminary – get rid of the thinkers that teach there!
“Excellency” Weisburger is unjust and untruthful, in imitation of the late Pontiff Francis.
He is a fitting successor in the long line of false shepherds presiding for decades in the AD of Detroit, the spawn of the false shepherd Bishop Deardon.
These three Catholics are hardly far-right sedevacantists. They are widely respected, established, orthodox, faithful Catholics. I had a feeling that Dr. Peters was next. The firings say more about the archbishop than they do about those who were fired. I can only hope and pray that Pope Leo starts to rein in those on the far left, and that any other bishops who send their seminarians to Detroit will pull them out of there before it’s too late.
At one point in recent years, the former Pope Francis warned der Synodal Weg that we don’t need two Protestant churches in Germany. And, now, today we’d like to think that HE would warn the Lone Ranger weisenheimer’s within the USCCB that we don’t need a wedge between a past pope and the current Pope Leo XIV. An ecclesial “Saturday Night Massacre”.
Two points:
FIRST, one task facing the American-born Pope Leo is to reconcile a legitimate “ecclesial assembly” (not a “synod of bishops”) with a real Synod of Bishops in conformance with the “hierarchical communion” proclaimed by the Second Vatican Council (Lumen Gentium, Ch. 3).
So, about the three dismissed theologians in Detroit, maybe the Cardinal Archbishop Cupich can clear things up. Or, maybe Cardinal McElroy in DC, whose appointment is otherwise seen by many as simply a political maneuver to offset a Presidential Election in the secular domain.
SECOND, about the secular domain, another and broader challenge for Pope Leo is to maintain the crucial doctrinal distinction between proclaiming the Gospel in its entirety and, yet, morally influencing related matters of urgent prudential judgment to be made by those directly responsible for the common good (Gaudium et Spes).
SUMMARY, about the papal election last May, someone in the USCCB please make sure that Bishop Weisenburger (appointed earlier in February and who is surely acting alone) gets that memo.
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/detroit-archbishop-fires-renowned-conservative-professors-from-sacred-heart-seminary/
Is Detroit and Weisenberger a red flag warning of greater darkness or marker for papal intervention? Or silent approbation?
Abp Weisenberger is avowedly in his own words a convinced progressive in the mold of Francis I, which produced Cdls McElroy, Tucho Fernandez. It’s not productive to go into a detailed quai treatise in defence of three of our [those of us beleaguered Apostolic traditionalists] finest. Assuredly there’ll be an avalanche of unfavorable response to Weisenberger’s despot decision. Surely a milepost for good or evil worthy of repeated address.
These men Martin, Echeverria, Peters are orthodox and fair minded, meaning they were willing to embrace homosexuals under condition that they repent. They were willing to admit divorced and remarried outside the Church under condition that they abstain from receiving the Eucharist. Obviously Weisenberger rejected the conditions. What he advocates is Queerdom and cohabitation as legitimate forms of living Christianity.
Pope Leo, in the interests of unity, which he avows cannot remain silent or issue a meaningless rationalization. It’s a watershed moment for the Church. He has openly admitted to being a Francis I follower. Now it’s time for him to clarify exactly what that means. And for us to pray, sacrifice, and hope.
Dr. Martin has been vocal in his criticism of Pope Francis’ lack of clarity, but, in his own work, he has not shown the clarity that a philosophy and theology professor needs to exhibit.
Take this quote from the above article: “a heresy called ‘universalism,’ which teaches that perhaps — or certainly — everyone will eventually end up in heaven.”
Universalism asserts that we can be certain that all will eventually be in heaven. Holding open the possibility that each person may choose redemption is a different idea entirely and is not heretical.
This may seem like a minor point, but philosophy is essentially the business of making distinctions and seemingly small inaccuracies lead to erroneous conclusions.
Maybe the bishop had entirely different reasons for firing Dr. Martin, but Dr. Martin ‘s inability to see such a simple point on the nature of universalism, about which he wrote extensively, is reason enough to think that it was at least time for him to retire.
https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2024/01/18/on-the-relevance-and-reality-of-the-development-of-doctrine-today/
Those whose competence it is, must call for a Council to declare the authority of Jorge Bergoglio null and void, as according to Catholic Canon 750
And
Canon 188 §4 states that among the actions which automatically (ipso facto) cause any cleric to lose his office, even without any declaration on the part of a superior, is that of “defect[ing] publicly from the Catholic faith” (” A fide catholica publice defecerit“).