Diocese promises answers to Zuni

By Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola
Gallup Independent
November 10, 2014

http://gallupindependent.com/

ZUNI — The Diocese of Gallup has now provided parishioners at St. Anthony’s Mission with a copy of a letter about their former priest who diocesan officials say “abandoned his assignment” on the Pueblo of Zuni last month.

In addition, the diocesan chancellor is promising answers.

According to parishioners, the Rev. Ravi Kiran, aka Ravi Kiran Dasari or Ravikiran Dasari, a native of India, abruptly left the mission on Oct. 9. Since his departure, diocesan officials have audited the mission’s financial accounts amidst allegations that Kiran may have misused mission funds.

Bishop James S. Wall has refused to answer media questions about Kiran or the allegations. Instead, on Friday, Susan G. Boswell, his lead bankruptcy attorney, released a short announcement the bishop had sent to be read to parishioners in late October. That announcement was published Saturday.

The Rev. Kevin Finnegan, the chancellor for the diocese, initially read the letter to parishioners on Oct. 26. On Sunday, Finnegan returned to St. Anthony’s and distributed copies of the announcement, which stated Kiran returned to India without notifying the diocese or requesting permission for a leave of absence.

“His actions were found to be unprovoked and a surprise to everyone,” the statement said.

Finnegan told parishioners the Gallup Diocese was investigating Kiran’s departure and promised them eventual answers.

“But when I find out, you’ll find out,” Finnegan said.

Questions about Kiran’s tenure at St. Anthony’s Mission have been submitted to Zuni Gov. Arlen Quetawki Sr. Questions about the allegations have been submitted to the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office. Questions emailed to Kiran’s religious superior of the Missionary Society of Heralds of Good News in India have not been answered.

In addition, Kiran’s email address was obtained on Sunday, and he was invited to explain his abrupt departure.

Kiran does have many loyal supporters in his former parish at St. Anthony’s. However, during interviews after Mass on Sunday, only two supporters agreed to provide their names and speak on the record on his behalf. Their comments will be featured in an article later in the week.

— Individuals who would like to give their name and offer their comments on the record are invited to contact reporter Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola at 505-870-0745 or religion@gallupindependent.com.