SCOTLAND
Scotsman
A SCOTTISH priest who escaped prosecution for decades of alleged sexual abuse has been dismissed by the Vatican.
Father Thomas Mullen was sacked by the Catholic Church after the results of an internal inquiry despite the decision by Crown prosecutors not to pursue the allegations.
Leo Cushley, the Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh, informed parishioners at Our Lady of Lourdes in Dunfermline of the Vatican’s decision at the weekend. He told them of his “deepest regret” over the matter, and acknowledged the “gravity” of the offences which Mullen was accused of.
In a letter he wrote: “With the canonical process now completed, I regret to inform you that, in a trial which finished recently in Rome, Father Mullen was found guilty of certain canonical offences.
“As a result he has been dismissed from the clerical state. This means he may no longer function as a priest.
“I know this is a harsh blow for many of you and I share your sense of shame and distress. I also feel for his family and friends who will recall with affection the good he accomplished.
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