MINNESOTA
KARE
[with video]
ST. PAUL, Minn. — Archbishop John Nienstedt, the head of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, has been accused of inappropriately touching a minor in 2009.
In light of the accusation, the Archbishop will step down from public ministry while the church and St. Paul Police investigate the incident. The accuser alleges Nienstedt touched his buttocks during a “public photo session” following a confirmation ceremony.
“The letter is a real shock,” best-selling author John Thavis said.
Thavis lived in Italy and covered the Vatican for 30 years before moving back to St. Paul, where he is writing another book.
“Obviously he is vehemently denying the accusation,” the author added.
The archbishop did write a public letter in which he says “this allegation is absolutely false.”
The alleged incident was reported to the Archdiocese on Thursday. Nienstedt learned about it Sunday evening and St. Paul Police say they were informed on Monday afternoon.
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