A financial scandal involving a former church business manager has left two New York Catholic parishes reflecting on issues of trust, accountability, and stewardship within their faith communities.
Keith M. Call, 63, has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $82,000 from two Roman Catholic churches while serving as their business manager. According to prosecutors, the theft occurred over a period spanning 2024 to 2025, during which Call allegedly diverted funds through unauthorized purchases, fraudulent checks, and misused church resources, including fundraiser money and a church-issued credit card.
Authorities say the scheme affected St. Mary's Church in Swormville and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Williamsville. The financial discrepancies were uncovered following an internal audit after Call's resignation in August 2025. He has since been ordered to repay the full amount of $82,451.90 as part of his plea agreement and faces sentencing in May.
The case has sparked concern among parishioners, many of whom view churches as places of spiritual refuge and trust. While the financial loss is significant, the emotional impact has also been felt across the community, as members process how such breaches of confidence can occur within institutions built on faith and service.
In a separate but similar situation within the wider Church, another Catholic parish in Illinois recently saw leadership changes following allegations of financial mismanagement, further highlighting ongoing concerns about oversight and transparency in church operations.
For many within the faith community, these incidents have prompted reflection rather than only frustration. Conversations have emerged around strengthening financial accountability while also holding onto core Christian values of forgiveness, restoration, and prayer.
As one perspective shared within similar church communities suggests, moments like these call not only for justice and correction but also for prayer-for healing, wisdom, and renewed integrity moving forward.
The investigation and legal process in Call's case remain ongoing as the community continues to respond to the impact of the scandal.
