Catholic Priest on Placed on Leave Amid Alleged Sexual Abuse on Children
A priest from western Pennsylvania has been placed on leave while investigation of alleged sexual abuse involving children from several decades ago is ongoing.
The Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown said Friday that the Rev. George Koharchik, pastor of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Mount Union, will not be permitted to function as a priest and won't have contact with children while he is on leave.
WJACTV.com reported: The decision is in compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2002 for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy.
It was stated the sexual misconduct took place in the late 1970s and the alleged victims brought it to the attention of the church.
The Cambria County district attorney has notified of the accusations by Bishop Mark Bartchak.
The Bishop had some sobering remarks about keeping the children safe and prayer for their healing as victims of abuse:
"Children are a precious gift from God, and we must always take the necessary steps to ensure their protection in the Catholic Church," said the Most Rev. Mark L. Bartchak, Bishop of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, in the release. "I pray for the alleged victims in this case and for all children who have suffered sexual abuse in our society. May the Lord grant them healing, comfort, and peace. Let us also remember the parish family of Saint Catherine of Siena in Mount Union during these difficult days. As Diocesan Bishop, I pledge my continued prayers and support to that faith community and the entire Church of Altoona-Johnstown."The allegations have not been elaborated on by the church.
A letter from the bishop was read to church members on Sunday.
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