NORTHBORO (MA)
Patch
Bishop: “In Christian charity, I also ask that you pray for Fr. Gemme and for all who struggle with gambling addictions.”
Posted by Michael Gelbwasser (Editor) , October 14, 2013
St. Bernadette Parish pastor Fr. Stephen Gemme has resigned amid allegations that he stole $230,000 from the Northborough church and school, the Rev. Robert J. McManus, bishop of Worcester, said in a letter to the parish this weekend.
The letter is posted on St. Bernadette’s website.
Fr. Gemme has been on a medical leave of absence from the Roman Catholic church, at 266 Main St., since July, the bishop said.
“In mid-July I received a letter from a member of the St. Bernadette School Advisory Board, expressing concern about expenditures in a single account in the school budget,” the Rev. McManus wrote.
“The following day, Fr. Gemme met with me and acknowledged a gambling problem. I immediately revoked his authorization to sign checks, and we made arrangements for a medical leave of absence so that Fr. Gemme could receive professional, residential evaluation and treatment.
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