NEW MEXICO
Gallup Independent

Published in the Gallup Independent, Nov. 7, 2014

By Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola
Independent correspondent
religion@gallupindependent.com

ZUNI — Officials with the Diocese of Gallup are investigating the sudden disappearance of one of its foreign priests, as well as allegations surrounding his abrupt departure.

The Rev. Ravi Kiran, aka Ravi Kiran Dasari or Ravikiran Dasari, a native of India, reportedly left his assignment at St. Anthony’s Indian Mission on the Pueblo of Zuni Oct. 9, according to Zuni parishioners. A multitude of allegations surround the priest, including allegations of possible misuse of parish funds.

Questions emailed Tuesday to Bishop James S. Wall and his chancellor, the Rev. Kevin Finnegan, have not yet been answered. Questions were left Thursday for Zuni Gov. Arlen P. Quetawki Sr., who was out of his office.

A request for comment from Kiran’s provincial superior in India has gone unanswered.

Suzanne Hammons,…