Retired Priest Removed from Ministry Amid Abuse Claims

WOOD
August 14, 2015

http://woodtv.com/2015/08/14/gr-diocese-ties-cut-with-retired-priest-amid-sex-abuse-claims/

A retired priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids has been permanently removed from the ministry following allegations of sexual abuse of a minor, according to a release posted Friday on the diocese’s website.

The Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith sent notice to the diocese that Father Charles Antekeier, 79 — who retired in 2000 and served in several different West Michigan churches — cannot “publicly present himself as a priest,” the release said.

The alleged victim notified the diocese about incidents that allegedly happened between 1984 and 1985 while Antekeier served at Saint James Parish in Grand Rapids, according to the diocese.

The diocese said Antekeier worked in the following churches throughout his career:

Ordained: 1962

1962: St. Charles, Cheboygan

1966: St. Patrick, Grand Haven

1966: St. Mary, Grand Rapids

1972: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Belmont

1977: St. James, Grand Rapids

1987: St. Francis Xavier, Grand Rapids

2000: Senior priest status (Retired)

In the release on the diocese’s website, Bishop David Walkowiak released the following statement:

“I want to express my deepest apologies to any children, young people and their families who have been abused by members of the clergy in the Diocese of Grand Rapids. While there are no words that can heal such wounds, I humbly ask for forgiveness for the pain and injury you and your families have suffered.”

The information reported to the diocese has been communicated to police. Anyone with knowledge of sexual abuse by church staff should contact the diocese at 616.243.0491.

24 Hour News 8 is working to get more information. Check back with woodtv.com for the latest.