Retired Diocese of Erie priest removed from ministry amid sexual abuse allegations

JOHNSTOWN (PA)
WJAC

By Liana Daywalt

Erie – A priest who once served in the Diocese of Erie has been prohibited from all public ministry as well as any contact with minors after an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor.

According to a news release from the diocese, the allegations against 86-year-old Father Charles Schmitt dates back to the 1960s.

Bishop Lawrence Persico of Erie called the news disheartening saying in part, “this is a very difficult time for the Catholic Church, but we must face the truth. In collaboration with law enforcement, victims are finding their voice and helping us to ensure we are living out the principles we proclaim.”

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