text: Tony Flannery IS an integral part of what constitutes "church."  He joined the Redemporist congregation at the age of 17, and has spend his entire life ministering to others. He lives and breaths the church and he loves it deeply. This is not the same as joining some organization/corporation and then deciding you don't agree with their mission. As Christians we become members from our baptism. I can totally understand Tony Flannery wanting to remain in the church and to help reform those areas that he believes are abusive.  Many devout Catholics have witnessed abuse and corruption  in the church, especially after the pedophilia scandal was made public. It pains them deeply, but they would never/could never leave. They are the Church, they are the People of God.  It has formed them and shaped how they live their lives. These folks feel that it is better to stay within and work for positive change.  For more I suggest  that you read  Father Flannery's  book: A Question of Conscience.