A controversial Wisconsin priest is once again making headlines this time for advising his parishioners to not take the COVID vaccine and to rely on God instead because he’s the “best doctor”.
According to the La Crosse Tribune, Father James Altman regularly declared COVID a “hoax” during his sermons at the St. James the Less Catholic Church and presided over packed services with maskless parishioners, including Easter Sunday Service where approximately 300-500 people were in attendance.
The Tribune reviewed photos from Easter Sunday mass showing at least 50 people in the front row not wearing masks. Videos from the Easter Sunday service also shows atleast 170 parishioners receiving communion by mouth.
The Diocese of La Crosse said it continues to work “privately” on the issues regarding Altman.
“It is a matter of concern for Bishop Callahan when Fr. James Altman, or any of his priests, address medical, political or worldly challenges in a manner that misleads or overtly condemns others,” the diocese added.
A page from a bulletin at Altman’s church describes COVID vaccines as “an experimental use of a genetic altering substance that modifies your body — your temple of the Holy Spirit.”
Additionally, a flyer posted to the church’s website states it is “diabolical for anyone to virtue-signal/shame/compel you to take such an experimental drug, making you nothing other than a guinea pig.”
“God is still the best doctor and prayer is still the best medicine,” the flyer added.
Altman came under fire last year for attacking the leaders of the church, and degrades practicing Catholics who are Democratic, calling them “Godless” hypocrites who are going to hell.
