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	Diocese: Smithton Priest Steps Aside to Face "Very Serious" Personal and Legal Matters Belleville News-Democrat January 25, 2011 http://www.bnd.com/2011/01/25/1564982/diocese-smithton-priest-steps.html Parishioners of St. John the Baptist Parish were told during Mass on Sunday that their pastor was on a "temporary leave of absence," that may become permanent. According to parishioners and to a copy of a one-page letter from the Rev. John McEvilly, vicar general, of the Belleville Diocese, parishioners learned that the Rev. Gerald R. Hechenberger had removed himself from ministry to "...address the very serious personal, pastoral and legal challenges that he is currently facing." The letter, signed by McEvilly, also stated, "In the present climate, it is important for you to know that the serious matters we are addressing do not involve the abuse of a minor." The letter did not have details about why Hechenberger left his post. Hechenberger could not be reached for comment. The decision to allow Hechenberger to leave his parish occurred after a meeting between the priest and Bishop Edward Braxton. Braxton could not be reached for comment. He normally maintains a policy of not responding to local media. The letter concluded, "It will probably be several months before it can be determined when or if Father Hechenberger will be able to return to parish ministry." McEvilly could not be reached for comment. Checks of court records in the six counties including St. Clair County where Hechenberger has resided did not turn up his name.
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