Fr. Groeschel in critical condition after Orlando car accident

Orlando, Fla., Jan 13, 2004 / 22:00 pm

Fr. Benedict Groeschel, author, television personality and founder of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, is in critical condition in an Orlando hospital after being hit by a car over the weekend.

The 70-year-old priest was hit near the Orlando International Airport while he was walking to a restaurant Sunday night. He had stepped out from in front of a bus and wasn't seen by the driver of the approaching car, reported the Associated Press.

No charges were being filed against the driver.

The director of spiritual development for the Diocese of New York was in Orlando to speak at a retreat. He has counseled priests accused of child sexual abuse for 30 years and has written several books, including "The Cross at Ground Zero" and "The Rosary: Chain of Hope."

Many U.S. Catholics know Groeschel from the Eternal Word Television Network, where he has appeared for the past 20 years. On Monday, EWTN officials said Groeschel had suffered broken arms and legs and had head trauma, reported the AP.