Priests in St. Cloud Diocese monitored for misconduct

The Diocese of St. Cloud confirms that it is monitoring several priests.

Diocese officials say they are monitoring fewer than ten priests. Some for sexual misconduct. Others for things such as chemical dependency.

Priests in the program are expected to meet quarterly with a review committee of clergy members and the non-ordained. The program is run by the Vicar General, the diocese's number-two official, who is responsible for daily and weekly checks on the whereabouts of the priests.

According to the diocese, the priests who have committed sexual misconduct cannot celebrate mass or give communion, and they are monitored for life.

The program was first mentioned at a listening session held Monday evening in St. Cloud to discuss a former deacon accused of sexual abuse.

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