SPRINGFIELD (MA)
WWLP [Springfield, MA]
September 18, 2026
By John Budenas
The Diocese of Springfield has suspended two Stigmatine priests assigned to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish following separate reports of alleged improper behavior, including one involving a minor.Springfield man charged in connection with deadly Main Street shooting
The Diocese announced Friday that Stigmatine Father Paolo Bagattini was suspended after receiving a report in July concerning improper behavior with a minor that allegedly began in late 2022 and occurred during his time at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield.
The Diocese said it immediately shared the report with civil authorities, including the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, upon receiving it.
Bishop William D. Byrne suspended Bagattini’s faculties within the Diocese of Springfield on July 22, 2026. He remains suspended.
On Thursday, Sept. 17, the Diocese said it received a second report involving Stigmatine Father Robert White. The report was made by an adult and concerned an alleged improper relationship.
The Diocese said the new information was immediately forwarded to civil authorities for review. Byrne also immediately removed White’s faculties within the Diocese, including his position as pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, while the Diocese reviews the allegations.
The Diocese said Stigmatine Father Kleber L. Cardoso will oversee interim pastoral duties at the parish.
The Diocese said it generally defers to civil authorities in matters involving allegations against members of the clergy. According to the Diocese, individuals facing allegations are removed from active ministry, while further action, including publicly identifying individuals or conducting internal procedures, is deferred until civil authorities complete their work.
The Diocese said it released the statement in this case because of the additional allegation involving the parish’s longtime pastor and with the consent of civil authorities.
“At this time, Bishop Byrne asks for prayers and support for all those affected by these announcements today,” the Diocese said.
The Diocese encouraged anyone with concerns about the conduct of a priest, staff member or volunteer affiliated with the Diocese to contact law enforcement and Michael Collins, the Diocesan Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance.
Collins can be reached at (413) 452-0624 or m.collins@diospringfield.org.