The parishioners of an outspoken South Side priest are trying to turn up the heat on Cardinal Francis George. They’re demanding that George return Reverend Michael Pfleger to his duties as pastor of St. Sabina Church.

Cardinal George put Rev. Pfleger on a leave of absence yesterday in response to the priest’s mocking criticism of U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton in a sermon 10 days ago.

About 150 St. Sabina parishioners and students of the church’s elementary school gathered on the steps in front. They said they were heartbroken that Pfleger may not be able to preside over a wedding and a kindergarten graduation scheduled for this Saturday.

St. Sabina’s ministry director Randall Blakey said letters of protest to the Cardinal have led to a planned meeting with him later this week. The Archdiocese hasn’t confirmed that information. The parishioners vowed to keep fighting until Pfleger is back in the pulpit.