Statement of the Diocese of Manchester

Roman Catholic Diocese of Manchester
May 6, 2013

http://www.catholicnh.org/about/news/news-releases/statement/

Earlier this year, the Diocese of Manchester received allegations regarding a potentially inappropriate adult relationship involving Msgr. Edward J. Arsenault, a priest of the Diocese of Manchester. The diocese began a review of the claims. The review discovered evidence suggesting improper financial transactions by Msgr. Arsenault involving diocesan funds. Because the diocese was concerned that illegal acts may have been committed, it reported the matter to the New Hampshire Office of the Attorney General. The diocese is cooperating with the Attorney General's investigation.

The Attorney General's office and the diocese continue their respective investigations. As a result, the diocese cannot discuss this matter further. The diocese will offer more information when it is appropriate to do so.

Msgr. Arsenault held senior positions in diocesan leadership from January 1999 to February 2009. Since October 2009, he has been serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of St. Luke Institute in Silver Spring, Maryland. Msgr. Arsenault has resigned from that position and will refrain from all public ministry, pending the investigations.

Bishop Peter A. Libasci said, "I am committed to reviewing our internal diocesan operations to ensure that any issues are identified and corrected, as necessary. We will do this in the light of day. In the meantime, we will be cooperating fully with the Attorney General's investigation. Please join with me in keeping all those involved in your prayers."

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The Diocese of Manchester is the Roman Catholic Church of New Hampshire, serving the needs of more than 285,000 Catholics. For more information, please visit www.catholicnh.org.