Priest with Deep Upstate Ties Faces Sexual Misconduct Allegations

By Derek Dellinger
Fox Carolina
March 10, 2013

http://www.foxcarolina.com/story/21566647/priest-with-sc-ties-faces-sexual-misconduct-allegations


GREENVILLE, SC (FOX Carolina) -

A Catholic priest with some deep ties to the Upstate is in administrative leave following allegations of sexual misconduct.

Father Hayden Vaverek had "his priestly faculties withdrawn," according to the Diocese of Charleston.

FOX Carolina obtained a letter sent from St. Joseph's Catholic School to parents regarding the allegations.  The letter said the allegations of sexual misconduct involve a minor and date back more than 15 years.  The misconduct allegedly occurred while Vaverek was pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Greenwood, but "no parishioners of that parish were involved in the reported allegation," the diocese said.  The school said Vaverek had previously served on the Board of Trustees at St. Joseph's Catholic School in Greenville.

Vaverek also served at several parishes across the Upstate, including Simpsonville, Anderson and Greenwood.

In 2011, he began working for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association based in New York City.

The Diocese of Charleston is asking if anyone has any information regarding sexual misconduct, or is a victim themselves, that they contact local law enforcement.  In addition, the diocese said they are offering counseling to those affected.