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Suspended Priest Reinstated Springfield News-Sun March 19, 2009 http://www.springfieldnewssun.com/n/content/oh/story/news/local/2009/03/19/sns032009priest.html CINCINNATI — After three years on administrative leave, the Rev. Clarence Heis is returning to priestly ministry, effective today, March 19. He will reside in Cincinnati and celebrate the sacraments in the Archdiocese as needed, according to a release. A former pastor of St. Michael Parish in Mechanicsburg, Heis, 55, was put on leave by Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk after he was arrested Oct. 19, 2005, at a park in Fairborn. He later pleaded no contest to charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. He was fined and sentenced. No minors were involved in the incident. While on leave, during which he has not been permitted to present himself as a priest, Heis received counseling to address the issues related to the incident. He has fulfilled the terms of his probation. His psychologist has advised the archdiocese that it would be suitable for Heis to return to active ministry. "I am sorry for what happened," said Heis, "and I apologize to those I have hurt by my actions. I am grateful for the support I have received from my family and friends." Archbishop Pilarczyk reaffirmed that the church demands and that he expects priests of the Archdiocese to live in accord with the demands of celibate chastity. |
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