STOCKTON (CA)
Lodi News-Sentinel
Posted: Saturday, April 7, 2012
By Maggie Creamer and Lauren Nelson/News-Sentinel Staff Writers
Three hours after hearing the verdict in his civil trial, a teary-eyed, choked up Michael Kelly faced an emotional congregation.
Earlier that afternoon, he was held liable on three counts of assault, sexual assault and abuse. He had been removed as a priest, stripping him of the ability to lead his congregation just before Easter.
“Practically speaking for now, and several years to come, I cannot be your pastor anymore,” he said as his voice cracked. “It breaks my heart, but I can’t. That is the way it is written. As much as I love all of you, I have to obey what the rules are.”
Yet he maintained that he is innocent, and reaffirmed his plans to keep fighting.
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