Albany bishop denies claim he had homosexual relations in '70s

Published: 2004-02-05

ALBANY, N.Y. (CNS) -- Bishop Howard J. Hubbard of Albany has vehemently denied an allegation that he had sexual relations more than 25 years ago with a man named Thomas Zalay, who committed suicide in 1978. "I stand before you today with a clear conscience," the bishop said at a Feb. 5 press conference. "There is absolutely no truth to the allegations that have been leveled against me. I have never sexually abused anyone of any age. I have honored my vow of celibacy." His declaration drew a standing ovation from scores of clergy and diocesan employees who attended the press conference, held at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Albany. The bishop's statement followed a Feb. 4 claim by a California man, Andrew Zalay, that his brother, Thomas, had left behind a suicide note detailing an affair with the bishop. At the press conference, Bishop Hubbard said, "I do not know Thomas Zalay. I have never had any relationship with Thomas Zalay."

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