Local Priest Resigns Amid Inapropriate Behavior Allegations

KRIS
June 30, 2014

http://www.kristv.com/news/local-priest-resigns-amid-inapropriate-behavior-allegations/

A local pastor is placed on leave, amid allegations of inappropriate conduct against a church worker or employee.

Monsignor Michael Heras has been serving in the Corpus Christi area since 1993, making him a very well-known figure throughout the community.

He was appointed as pastor at St. Peter Prince of the Apostles Parish in Corpus Christi just last July.

Before, he served as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help also in Corpus Christi. He was in Gregory before that for about 8 years, and has been ordained for nearly thirty.

We received a statement from the Diocese of Corpus Christi about the Monsignors' resignation:

"The Diocese of Corpus Christi, and its Churches and Schools, continue to be committed to protecting children and young persons. Any accusation of inappropriate conduct, made against a church worker or employee of the Diocese is always taken seriously and fully investigated regardless of the age of the victim or the amount of time that has passed.

An accusation of inappropriate conduct on the part of Msgr. Michael Heras, Pastor of St. Peter Prince of the Apostle's Parish in Corpus Christi has been received by the Diocese. The alleged inappropriate conduct occurred years ago. In keeping with Diocesan policy, Msgr. Heras was immediately placed on leave, pending a complete investigation, and law enforcement was notified. Monsignor Heras has subsequently resigned as Pastor of St. Peter Prince of the Apostle's Parish.

Prayers are requested for all concerned together with an appeal for the fair treatment and protection of the good name of all parties. As this is an ongoing investigation there will be no further comment."

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