GUAM
KUAM
Updated: Sep 30, 2016
By Sabrina Salas Matanane
Just hours after the Archdiocese of Agana cleared Monsignor James Benavente of any wrongdoing, a complaint was filed by the Catholic Cemeteries of Guam, Inc. with the Guam Police Department and the Attorney General’s Office. According to the complaint, Catholic Cemeteries alleges $13,000 was misused for Monsignor Benavente’s 20th anniversary dinner in 2014.
According to KUAM News files, one week after the monsignor’s 20th anniversary celebration, Archbishop Anthony Apuron removed him as rector of the cathedral and director of the Catholic Cemeteries.
The Archdiocese of Agana issued a statement in response to the complaint stating this matter was addressed and the findings determined Monsignor Benavente to be cleared of any financial irregularities. Additionally, Archbishop Savio Hon Tai Fai also clarified that the Catholic Cemeteries of Guam is an entity of the Archdiocese of Agana and in no way did he authorize any individual to represent the archdiocese nor file such a complaint on behalf of the organization.
He said such misrepresentations constitutes a grave wrong and disobedience that will not be tolerated. Archbishop Hon plans to take immediate and appropriate action to discipline the person or persons involved.
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