GUAM
KUAM
Updated: Sep 30, 2016
By Krystal Paco
After two long years of not having an opportunity to defend himself and his reputation, that day finally came for Monsignor James Benavente. In July 2014, one week after the monsignor celebrated 20 years as rector of the Dulce Nombe de Maria Cathedral-Basilica, Archbishop Anthony Apuron suddenly removed him from the position and his position as director of Catholic Cemeteries.
Apuron accused the monsignor of mismanaging millions of dollars in church money.
His prayers were answered. Monsignor Benavente announced, “That’s the greatest thing we can do is to pray for those who have done us harm, and that’s what I had opted to do.” For two years, he’s stood accused of financial mismanagement in the church. When the allegations surfaced, Archbishop Apuron didn’t allow for due process. Under the direction of apostolic administrator Archbishop Savio Hon Tai Fai, Benavente’s name was cleared.
“I am grateful for the vindication I have received from the present administration of this archdiocese,” Monsignor Benavente continued. “Having been able to respond directly to these alleged financial irregularities, we now know today that truth and justice have once again prevailed.”
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