Church controversy continues

By Sabrina Salas Matanane
KUAM
July 26, 2014

http://www.kuam.com/story/26119001/2014/07/26/church-controversy-continues

Guam - KUAM News has received a copy of a letter that was sent to several people in the Archdiocese of Agana today announcing Archbishop Anthony Apuron's removal of  Monsignor James Benavente as Rector of the Dulce Nombre Maria Cathedral-Basilica. According to the letter his removal went into effect Friday, July 25th.

According to the letter Monsignor James was also removed as the Director of Catholic Cemeteries for the Archdiocese of Agana. The letter also announced the Archbishop's directive dissolving the Archdiocesan Development Group. The Group served as the umbrella organization for the Cathedral's gift shop, museum and Media Ministries.

Monsignor Benavente served as Rector for 20 years. His removal is the latest controversy for the Catholic church in Guam.  Earlier this week, the Archbishop removed Father John Wadeson from active ministry in the Archdiocese of Agana. His removal followed the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests or SNAP exposing his past and the fact that Father Wadeson was twice accused of child molestation in California. Father Wadeson was banned from the Los Angeles Archdiocese. The day after he was removed, Father Wadeson left Guam.

Requests for comment from the Archdiocese all this week were unsuccessful.