By Religious Editor-in-Chief, Rob Gocklin
LifeSite News has released a press statement announcing that founder and CEO John Henry Westen has been fired. Many people are surprised that a founder and CEO could even be fired, but this is not uncommon in the business world.
I once worked for Bang Energy Drinks. When the company faced financial trouble and filed for bankruptcy, the judge appointed a board of directors. Their first move was to fire the founder and sell the company to a competitor. This is how business works. If something is hurting the organization, it gets cut off—even if the organization claims to be a ministry. There is often significant money involved.
Why John Henry Westen May Have Been Let Go
Some speculate that Westen’s dismissal was tied to personal failings similar to those seen in other Catholic media figures, but there has been no official statement confirming this. No allegations of sin or financial dishonesty have been publicly cited.
From my perspective, the issue likely stems from a pattern of behavior that has troubled many faithful Catholics for years. Westen’s videos often included attacks on Pope Francis and later Pope Leo XIV. He has been accused of spreading misinformation about Church leaders and policies.
Father Stephen Imbarrato, a respected pro-life priest, once told me that Westen was the worst liar on Catholic YouTube. At first, I was skeptical, but after watching some videos, I began to see how Westen misrepresented Pope Francis’s words and actions. Over time, this behavior eroded trust, even among those supporting LifeSite News financially.
Westen’s History of Controversial Statements
John Henry Westen had a history of promoting divisive figures like Archbishop Viganò and Father Altman, both known for their open defiance of Church authority. In one recent video, Westen questioned Pope Leo XIV’s Catholicity, asking whether “we are even dealing with a Catholic.”
This pattern mirrors his treatment of Pope Francis, whom he often slandered and disrespected. These attacks deeply hurt the Church’s unity and led many Catholics into confusion.
As a Catholic, I believe that attacking the Vicar of Christ is equivalent to attacking Christ Himself. St. Padre Pio’s example reminds us to respect and obey the Pope, even if we do not fully understand every decision.
The Official Statement From LifeSite News
LifeSite News issued a press release stating:
“John Henry Westen is no longer CEO and editor-in-chief following a recent board vote. He is now on a well-earned sabbatical spending valuable time with his family.”
They added:
“We acknowledge significant online speculation surrounding this decision but wish to clarify that much of it is inaccurate. The board’s decision was made after careful consideration, extensive prayer, and a commitment to best serve our donors, readers, and employees.”
This statement highlights the business realities of running a media organization. Donors were mentioned first in their priorities, which suggests financial concerns played a role.
Speculation and Moving Forward
It is possible that Westen will start his own channel and retain a following. This has been attempted by others, such as Michael Voris, with varying degrees of success. Loyal followers may continue to support Westen, but Catholics should remember that our faith is in Jesus Christ and His Church—not in individual personalities.
Why Catholics Must Stay Focused on Christ
As Catholics, our loyalty must be to Christ and His Church. Jesus gave us the papacy to provide guidance and unity. When individuals attack the Pope, they risk leading others into error and division.
The first sin in history was pride. Satan wanted to be like God. The second sin was also pride—Adam and Eve wanted to be like God. Pride is the root of these modern attacks on Church authority.
We must pray for those who have caused harm, asking God to grant them repentance and healing. At the same time, we must pray for Pope Leo XIV and all Church leaders, supporting them in their difficult mission to shepherd the faithful.
Final Thoughts
John Henry Westen’s removal from LifeSite News should serve as a wake-up call. Catholic media must uphold truth and unity, not sow division. Attacking the Pope, questioning his Catholicity, and spreading misinformation are serious offenses against the Church.
We should be cautious about placing our faith in media personalities. As St. Paul wrote, “Some say, ‘I follow Paul,’ others say, ‘I follow Apollos.’” But we are called to follow Christ and remain faithful to the Church He founded.
Let us continue to pray for all involved in this situation. Pray that those who have strayed will return to full communion with the Church and that Catholic media will focus on proclaiming the Gospel with integrity and fidelity.