SPRINGFIELD (MA)
The Republican - MassLive [Springfield MA]
September 18, 2026
By Aprell May Munford
Two priests who served at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield have been removed from ministry after separate allegations of improper relationships were reported to law enforcement, according to the Diocese of Springfield.
In a statement issued Friday, the diocese said the Rev. Paolo Bagattini was suspended July 22 after it received a report alleging improper behavior with a minor that began in late 2022 while he was serving at the parish.
“He remains suspended at this time,” the Diocese of Springfield said.
In an Aug. 30, 2026, church newsletter, Bagattini said he could not return to Springfield because of health issues.
He said he was experiencing macular degeneration in his left eye and a heart condition that had caused him to lose consciousness three times. The condition required him to slow down and avoid stress.
Bagattini said he was consulting with doctors and that the superior general had advised him to remain in Italy.
The Rev. Robert White, the parish’s longtime pastor, was also removed from ministry after an adult alleged an improper relationship. His case is pending review, according to the diocese.
According to a 2021 diocesan article, White was ordained in 1973 and previously served as a member of the diocesan Review Board.
The article also said White served the Stigmatine community as a formation team member, provincial secretary and general councilor in Rome, and was a member of the Presbyteral Council.
The diocese said it reported both allegations to law enforcement, including the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.
The Rev. Kleber L. Cardoso will oversee the parish during the investigation.
The diocese said it removes priests from ministry when allegations are reported and waits for police or other authorities to finish investigating before taking any other action.
“In this particular matter, because of the additional allegation, now involving the long-time pastor, it was in the best interest of this parish and with the consent from civil authorities, we are releasing this statement,” Diocese of Springfield said.