MISSOURI
The Joplin Globe
Jeff Lehr
Globe Staff Writer
2/28/06
The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau has relieved a Joplin priest of his parish duties in light of an allegation of sexual misconduct with a minor.
Bishop John J. Leibrecht came to Joplin on Sunday to inform parishioners at St. Peter's Catholic Church that Monsignor Stephen Schneider has been relieved of all diocesan duties after an investigation of an allegation that was brought to the diocese's attention in December.
Schneider, 61, had served as pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Parish since August of last year.
"He will no longer function as a priest," Leibrecht told the Globe in a telephone interview Monday.