1) I said I wanted to respond, so here goes. I deeply desire to know more about, engage with, and respect those I don't agree with. This is hopefully a good faith exercise in that, if not please let me know.
2) RE: the word "defending". There's room to argue semantics here and it might not have been my first choice in words but I have no problem with Rev. Rutledge using it.
3) If the docesis was coordinating legal help and loans for MR's legal DEFENSE, "defending" doesn't seem egregious. And all while not communicating the extent of this situation to their parishioners? If not "defending", can we say at least "covering for"?