MINNESOTA
St. Cloud Times
Written by
Vicki Ikeogu
Times Writers Group
From an early age we are taught the merits of being responsible. We are taught the difference between right and wrong, and the means and importance of being accountable for those actions. These lifelong lessons come from our parents, our teachers, our mentors and even our religious affiliations.
That’s why I’m so frustrated with the latest scandal involving another Catholic priest. Based on news reports this week, it seems the Catholic Church in general, and a specific dioceses in particular, are not practicing what they preach.
According to Twin Cities news reports, a Twin Cities woman, now in her late 20s, claims she was sexually abused by the Rev. Michael Jerome Keating, who was serving as an associate professor of Catholic studies at the University of St. Thomas. A lawsuit filed Monday stated the woman, who has not released her identity, was exposed to abuse as early as age 13.
A criminal complaint was filed in Ramsey County about the suspected abuse in 2006. However, there was not enough evidence to formally charge Keating. An internal investigation conducted by the archdiocese also concluded evidence was insufficient. With the revelation of the lawsuit, Keating voluntarily stepped down from his position.
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