Priest who retired after sex scandal in his Minnesota diocese defends self during first sermon

By John Mcneill
WIN
January 18, 2016

http://wincountry.com/news/articles/2016/jan/18/priest-who-retired-after-sex-scandal-in-his-minnesota-diocese-defends-self-during-first-sermon/

John Nienstedt resigned last June amidst sexual abuse allegations.

BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) -- The retired archbishop from Minnesota who retired following a sex scandal in his diocese defended himself from the podium this weekend in Battle Creek.

Archbishop Emeritus John Nienstedt told the congregation that news reports released last week were not entirely accurate, and that he would never do what he's been accused of doing.

Reaction from the congregation has been mixed.

John Clohessy, the national director of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, said it comes down to a simple question: "Why take the risk?"

The Kalamazoo Diocese said Nienstedt hasn't actually been convicted, and is in good standing with the church.

They plan to use him in Battle Creek to fill in for Rev. John Fleckenstein, who is dealing with a health issue.

They say the move is temporary, and the assignment will end in six months.