The Episcopal Church denied priesthood to former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, according to The New York Post. McGreevey may be famously remembered for resigning from his governor post in 2004 after coming out as a “gay American” and a series of gay flings despite his marriage to then-wife Dina Matos McGreevey.
A statement regarding his rejection for priesthood has not been formally announced or commented on by the Episcopal Church, but The Post cites the Episcopal Diocese of Newark explaining, “It was not being gay but for being a jackass.” The Episcopal church welcomes gay and lesbian priests and has since the organization lifted the ban in 2009.
McGreevey’s messy divorce didn’t do well for the former governor’s public image. And, with a hasty dedication to the Episcopal Church, it seemed his actions were more for PR appeal than genuine interest in the religion.
Supporters of McGreevey insist his interests in priesthood are legitimate. And, surprisingly, McGreevey may be well-qualified for a career in priesthood. The former governor received his Masters In Divinity from the General Theological Seminary in Chelsea after calling quits on his former political post.
Now living as an openly gay man, McGreevey resides with his partner, Mark O’Donnell, in New Jersey where they share a mansion, according to NBC News.
