MASSACHUSETTS
The Item
LANCASTER — Father Ed Lettic, longtime priest at the Immaculate Conception Church, was placed on leave after allegations of sexual misconduct were reported.
Rev. Robert J. McManus, bishop of Worcester, was at the church on Sunday to inform the congregation.
In a press release posted on the Diocese website Sunday, it stated that McManus made the following announcement to the congregation:
“I come before you today with a saddened heart to announce that I have placed Fr. Edward P. Lettic on administrative leave due to a credible allegation of sexual misconduct with a minor, which took place 40 years ago. Recently the victim came forward to the diocese with this allegation, which has been investigated with the oversight of the Diocesan Review Committee. It is the first and only report of an allegation of misconduct which we have received involving Fr. Lettic. Because of the serious nature of the allegation, and consistent with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, I must relieve Father Lettic of his duties as pastor of the parish and remove his faculties as a priest.”
“I truly realize that this news is a shock for you as it has been for me. I ask that you join me in prayer for the parish community, as well as for those who have been hurt in any way by sexual misconduct. I also ask that you keep Fr. Lettic in your prayers.”
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