St. Patrick's Priest Placed on Leave, We Are Central Pa, March 24, 2013

St. Patrick's Priest Placed on Leave

We Are Central Pa
March 24, 2013

http://wearecentralpa.com/fulltext?nxd_id=447322

[with video]

NEWRY, BLAIR COUNTY - Monsignor Anthony Little, Pastor of the Saint Patrick Parish in Newry has been placed on leave, according to a release from the Altoona Johnstown Catholic Diocese. Full release can be read below.

Diocesan Priest Placed on Leave Following Allegations of Sexual Misconduct

(HOLLIDAYSBURG, PA) - The Most Rev. Mark L. Bartchak, Bishop of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, has placed Monsignor Anthony B. Little, Pastor of Saint Patrick Parish in Newry, on leave from active ministry in the Priesthood. The action comes after accusations of sexual misconduct involving a minor that allegedly occurred in the 1990s.While on leave, Monsignor Little, 58, will not be permitted to function as a priest, and he will reside at a place where he has no contact with children.

In compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2002 for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy), Bishop Bartchak has notified the Blair County District Attorney of the accusations against Monsignor Little. No further action concerning Monsignor Little will be taken by the Diocese at this time.

Father Raymond Crosser, a senior priest of the Diocese, will serve as Temporary Administrator of Saint Patrick Parish. The usual Mass and sacramental schedule at the parish will continue. A letter from Bishop Bartchak will be read to parishioners at all Masses this weekend.

"These accusations are very painful," said Bishop Bartchak. "I pledge to continue taking whatever action is necessary to protect all of God's precious children in our Church. I encourage the faithful to join me in praying for the alleged victim in this case and all victims of sexual abuse in society. I also ask that you remember the good people of Saint Patrick Parish as they learn about this sad news. May God grant them comfort."