Newark Archbishop's Pricey Pad Causes Controversy

A half-million dollar renovation to the "weekend" home of the Archbishop of Newark has sparked a major controversy, raising questions about how money donated by church members is being used.

An online petition created by a D.C.-based website, Faithful America, has received more than 23,000 signatures to stop the renovation process, claiming that Archbishop John J. Myers does not need a 7,500-square-foot home for when he retires.

The house will become the retirement residence when he retires in two year, Jim Goodness, a spokesman for the Archdiocese of Newark, told ABC News. There is an additional suite being added for guests and office space, as well as a whirlpool and an exercise pool being added for therapeutic use, because he has some health issues. This would be beneficial for him in retirement.

There will also be an elevator and three gas fireplaces added, Goodness said.

Protesters say the additions are unnecessary and lavish, and have contrasted Myers' lifestyle to that of Pope Francis, who lives in a small apartment in Rome with other priests.

Faithful America could not be reached by ABC News for additional comment. But the Rev. John Bambrick, pastor of a parish in Jackson Township, part of the Diocese of Trenton, said the lavish spending reflected poorly on the church and highlights the contrast between Myers and Pope Francis.

I think it makes people question where their donations are going," Bambrick told ABC News today. It's embarrassing to the church and the clergy and its an insult to the people and God."

Most of the congregation when they hear about it they just think it is outrageous. They think they should sell it," Bambrick said.

Its really astounding given the fact that the pope teaches the bishops to live simply, Bambrick added, noting that Pope Francis has admonished priests "dont buy fancy cars and live simply.

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Newark Archbishop's Pricey Pad Causes Controversy