TYLER, Texas — In a surprising turn of events, the Vatican has officially removed Bishop Joseph Strickland from his administrative position in the Diocese of Tyler.
Ed Santos, a parishioner at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, said the news was a "surprise" to him.
Santos maintained a close relationship with Strickland and was taken aback by Pope Francis' decision on Saturday morning.
"Even with these changes, the Church will continue in its traditions," Santos said. "He remains a priest, he remains a bishop of the Diocese of Tyler until there are any more changes."
Santos highlighted Strickland's role in building relationships and strengthening bonds with various communities within the faith, acknowledging his conservative beliefs.
"It is his mission, I believe, from how I have seen him behave, to continue to rely on what we call the deposit of faith," Santos said.
CBS19 also spoke with Bishop Emeritus Edmond Carmondy, a former bishop of the Diocese of Tyler who currently serves in Corpus Christi.
"I only knew him when he was a priest. I never knew he was a bishop. I always knew him as a kind, thoughtful person. But that time, you know, he was a priest, and I never knew him since he became a bishop 10 years ago," Carmondy said.
Despite representing different parts of the state, Carmondy had a message of support for Strickland.
"Now, of course, you know, a decision has been made. So I would say, you know, Joe, we're praying for you," Carmondy said. "We would would say is, the Lord Jesus said, 'love one another.'"
The Vatican's decision to remove Strickland from his administrative position has left many in East Texas surprised and seeking answers, while others offer their prayers and support during this time.