I’ve not yet commented on the Bishop Hubbard situation up in Albany. For those of you unfamiliar with this latest twist in American Catholic Fun, a man came forward and said that his brother had committed suicide years before, leaving behind notes that implicated Bishop Hubbard in a sexual relationship. Then last week, another man came forward indicating that he had been paid for sex by Bishop Hubbard in years past.

Bishop Hubbard flew back into Albany from some time in Florida, held a press conference denying accusations, was applauded by his priests, and now his people are stepping up in defense

Saturday worshippers at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception placed about 50 votive candles around the bishop’s chair. Sunday, parishioners at St. Vincent’s donned purple ribbons.

Kathy Menard of Albany hopes the wearing of purple ribbons will spread throughout the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany.

“It is important that the bishop and the world know many, many, many of his community members support him,” Menard said. “He has stood in solidarity many times with people when they were troubled, it’s important we do so now. We feel an injustice has been done.”

Well, good for them. But be careful. Just as it is unwise to prematurely convict someone, it is unwise to prematurely exhonerate them as well, especially in such public, emotional ways. It could backfire, of course, but it also communicates, not just “support,” but a sort of blind loyalty in who you want the person to be rather than the truth.