Members of Michigan diocese angered at Nienstedt's arrival
Some members of a Michigan Catholic diocese are concerned that a priest who led a Minnesota archdiocese during a clergy sex abuse scandal is helping out in a Battle Creek church.
The Kalamazoo Gazette reported Tuesday that John Nienstedt is celebrating masses at St. Philip while its pastor recovers from an illness.
Nienstedt resigned from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis in June after charges were filed claiming the church failed to protect children. Nienstedt has not been charged.
St. Philip parent Samantha Pearl says "the church is demonstrating that it is willing protect those who have hurt children."
Kalamazoo diocese spokesperson Victoria Cessna says the church has no knowledge of pending allegations against Nienstedt.
The Associated Press left a message Tuesday evening seeking comment from Nienstedt.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.