Boston archbishop names figure from lay reform group to lead property panel

BOSTON (AP) — Archbishop Sean O'Malley has named David Castaldi, a leader in the lay reform group Voice of the Faithful, to head a seven-member committee that is overseeing the sale of property from dozens of church closings and determining how proceeds should be spent.

It is the first time the Boston Archdiocese has given a member of the controversial organization a key position in church affairs. Voice of the Faithful, which argues for a greater role for the laity in the Roman Catholic Church, was formed in the wake of the clerical abuse crisis.

Castaldi, a previous archdiocesan treasurer, told The Boston Globe said he was heartened by his appointment to the seven-member panel. The appointment, made in August, was not officially announced.

David W. Smith, chief financial officer of the archdiocese, said the archdiocese understands it needs to take steps to gain the public's trust in its decision-making, The Boston Globe reported.

''Financial transparency is the only route to gain the credibility of the people we serve,'' Smith said.