Update: SC priest "repudiated" for his pastoral letter?

Joseph Abrahams at Fox News claims so, and cites a new statement from the Apostolic Administrator of the Charleston Diocese Msgr. Martin Laughlin (who's standing in until a new bishop is appointed), who said:

"Father Newman's statements do not adequately reflect the Catholic Church's teachings. Any comments or statements to the contrary are repudiated""

You can read his full statement here (PDF). Also:

A video from Laughlin has likewise been posted by the diocese. According to one well-placed source on the ground, the understanding also included Newman pulling his statements from the parish site (a development which had reportedly taken place later Friday evening; the St Mary's site was inaccessible, ostensibly due to a heavy number of hits). {Whispers}

LifeSiteNews has the reactions of some prominent bishops.

I said in my first post on this story that I was surprised that the diocesan spokesman took a position in support of Fr. Newman. Frankly, I think it's above his pay grade, and obviously Msgr. Laughlin had his own ideas. (update: of course, one would hope the spokesman was not acting in good faith, and then subsequently contradicted by Msgr. Laughlin.)

My AmP Poll asking the question "Do you agree with Fr. Newman's Letter" is currently registering 69.5% yes, 21.1% no, and 9.5% undecided with 749 votes registered. I think it's very clear where the majority of AmP readers stand on this question.

But perhaps I should clarify my position: while one might agree or disagree with the substance of his letter, I would still say the prudence of the letter remains doubtful. Msgr. Laughlin also said that Fr. Newman's actions "diverted the focus from the Church’s clear position against abortion." That's really what's at issue here: how to pastorally yet powerfully and effectively preach this message.

That said, I'd rather see a few mistakes committed out of zealousness then witness continuing silence caused by cowardice. If we're trying to balance on the edge of a knife, there's a better side to err on.