Safe Environment Announcements

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has been informed by the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (F.S.S.P) that the Archdiocese of Omaha recently received an allegation concerning Reverend Eric Flood, F.S.S.P, involving alleged misconduct with a minor occurring more than twenty years ago. This allegation was immediately reported to law enforcement, in accordance with mandatory reporting requirements.

Consistent with the Archdiocese’s commitment to the protection of children and persons in vulnerable situations, and pending the outcome of investigations by civil authorities and the Archdiocese of Omaha, Father Flood has been temporarily withdrawn from the public exercise of priestly ministry, including celebrating Mass and other public ministerial duties. This administrative measure is intended to protect all parties, including Father Flood, and should not be interpreted as a determination regarding the allegation. No conclusion has been reached, and Father Flood is entitled to the presumption of innocence and to a fair and impartial process. Father Flood is cooperating fully with the investigation and adamantly denies the accusation.

We ask the faithful to pray for everyone affected by this situation, including the individual who reported the concern, Father Flood, those responsible for conducting the investigation, and our community. We ask all to refrain from rumor and speculation and instead entrust this matter to prayer and the proper processes of law enforcement and the Church. During the investigation, Father Flood has relocated outside of the state of Kansas. We recognize the serious nature of any safe environment concern and remain committed to transparency, justice, and respecting the privacy and dignity of all individuals involved as this matter is carefully reviewed. The archdiocese is cooperating fully with civil authorities, the Archdiocese of Omaha, and the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter. Upon completion of this investigation, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas’ Independent Review Board will conduct a review and provide recommendations to the Archbishop, who will determine any appropriate action.

Because this matter remains under investigation, no further comment will be made at this time. Anyone with information relevant to this matter is encouraged to contact the Douglas County, Nebraska, District Attorney at (402) 444-7040.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is announcing that an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor against former teacher James Zimmer has been substantiated following an independent review process.

Mr. Zimmer was an employee at Bishop Miege High School from 1969 to 1984, during which time an allegation was reported to have occurred. The allegation was determined to be credible and substantiated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight following a review by the Independent Review Board. Mr. Zimmer was also an employee at Rockhurst High School from 1987 to 1993. Mr. Zimmer died on June 1, 2000. While no allegations of misconduct or abuse have been received originating from his time of employment at Rockhurst, Rockhurst collaborated with the investigation conducted by the Office of Prevention and Care for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

We are grateful for the courage of those who reported their abuse and participated in the investigation. In cases where the accused is deceased, the effects of trauma can remain with victims and survivors for many years. The Archdiocese acknowledges such trauma and encourages anyone who may have been harmed by Mr. Zimmer or who has information related to this matter to come forward.

We are committed to listening to survivors, responding to misconduct with transparency and accountability, and fostering healing. Anyone who has experienced abuse by a representative of the Church is encouraged to call or text the Archdiocese’s Victim Care Advocate at (913) 298-9244.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the misconduct may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to our confidential report line at (913) 276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has been informed that Father Richard Storey, a priest formerly serving at Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, voluntarily surrendered to the Leawood Police Department today on a level 5 felony charge involving theft of funds valued at approximately $160,000. 

The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with law enforcement and will continue to respect the investigative process. No further information will be shared at this time until both the civil criminal and internal canonical processes have been completed. 

“This news is deeply painful for all of us in the  Catholic community, particularly given the nature of the allegations involving resources entrusted to the Church through the sacrifice and generosity of the faithful,” Archbishop Shawn McKnight said. “My primary concern at this time is for the people of Curé of Ars parish and all those directly affected. I am grateful for Father Riley’s steady leadership and care for this community during this difficult time. These allegations are serious, the legal processes must be allowed to proceed, and Father Storey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law or internal canonical process. I recognize there will be differing emotions and perspectives within the community in the days ahead, and I ask parishioners to treat one another with greater sensitivity, patience, charity, and respect as we move through this together, trusting that with faith in Christ, our community can emerge stronger and more united.” 

In September of 2025, the Archdiocese was notified by the Prairie Village Police Department about a criminal investigation involving Father Storey and another adult. The Prairie Village Police Department’s investigation remains ongoing. For questions about the investigation, please call the Prairie Village Police Department at (913) 381-6464. Father Storey then advised the Archdiocese of his decision to resign as the pastor of Curé of Ars. As a result, Father John Riley was appointed temporary administrator of the parish and then pastor in February of 2026. An internal financial review was initiated following Father Storey’s resignation. 

When there is a change in pastoral leadership at a parish, it is standard protocol to conduct an internal review to ensure financial records, administrative processes, and parish operations are in good order during the transition. In addition, archdiocesan parishes undergo routine reviews every 3 to 4 years. Curé of Ars’ most recent audit before this review was conducted in 2022. 

After the conclusion of the most recent financial review, Chancery officials met with the pastor and parish staff to ensure that proper protocols are now in place. During the course of the review, information was identified that warranted referral to law enforcement. The Archdiocese shared this information with the Leawood Police Department, which serves the jurisdiction where the parish office is located. Curé of Ars will be filing an insurance claim to recover the financial losses. To reach the Leawood Police Department, you can call (913) 642-5555.

Archbishop Shawn McKnight has announced that Father Jerry Arano-Ponce has been reinstated to full active ministry at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Wea, Kansas, effective immediately. 

In an announcement to Queen of the Holy Rosary parishioners, Archbishop McKnight explained that a thorough investigation by civil authorities and the Church has determined that no civil or Church laws were violated. As a result, his reinstatement was made possible, with specific requirements in place intended to strengthen the parish’s spirit of mutual care and responsibility. 

Archbishop McKnight recognizes how difficult this situation has been for all who are involved. He expresses his gratitude to those who have voiced their concerns, Father Jerry and the Queen of the Holy Rosary community, for their patience throughout this process. He prays that the parish remains a safe haven for all and a place where the community is brought closer to one another and to Christ. 

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has received an allegation of behavior inconsistent with our safe environment policies involving Father Jerry Arano-Ponce, pastor of Queen of the Holy Rosary in Bucyrus – Wea, Kansas.

Out of an abundance of caution and in keeping with our commitment to the safety and well-being of all members of our community, Father Jerry has been temporarily suspended from the public exercise of priestly ministry, including celebrating Mass and performing pastoral duties, pending the outcomes of formal investigations by local law enforcement and the Archdiocese. Taking this precautionary measure is a step to protect all parties and should not be viewed as an assertion of guilt. 

We recognize the serious nature of any safe environment concern and remain committed to transparency, justice, and respecting the privacy of all individuals involved as this matter is carefully reviewed. The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with civil authorities and will offer no further comment while the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to contact the Miami County Sheriff’s Office at (913) 294-3232.

Archbishop Shawn McKnight will appoint a temporary pastoral administrator for Queen of the Holy Rosary as soon as possible to ensure the parish community continues to receive pastoral care. 

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, Father Richard Storey advised the Archdiocese of his decision to resign as the pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood.

The Prairie Village Police Department has informed the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas of a criminal investigation involving Father Storey concerning another adult. The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with authorities so they can investigate the serious allegations being made against Father Storey.

In addition, Archbishop McKnight has initiated a preliminary canonical investigation.

Due to Father Storey’s decision to resign, and in compliance with archdiocesan policy, he has been temporarily suspended from the public exercise of priestly ministry. He is not allowed to function publicly as a priest during this time, which includes celebrating Mass and performing pastoral duties. He is presumed innocent until the investigations are concluded.

As is normative for such a process, the diocese will not provide any further information on the matter during the investigation.

Father John Riley, vicar general of the archdiocese, has been appointed as temporary administrator of the parish.

We are devastated by this situation. While we cooperate with law enforcement and engage in our own efforts to understand the circumstances and to determine next steps for the community, we also ask for prayers for all affected.

Read Archbishop McKnight’s letter to the Curé of Ars Parish community.

If you have any information you believe the police should know, please contact the Prairie Village Police Department at 913-642-6868.

Our archdiocese takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when it may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

The board of trustees of Bishop Miege High School (BMHS) announces that Phil Baniewicz’s last day as president was August 6, 2025. 

After careful consideration of the present circumstances, the board determined it is in the best interest of the BMHS community to move forward toward new leadership. Because this is a confidential personnel matter, no further information will be provided. The process of selecting a new president will begin soon, and the board expresses its gratitude to interim president Joseph Schramp for his leadership as the new school year begins.

”We are grateful for the prayers and support of our families and benefactors. Please continue to pray with us for all impacted by this situation,” stated Holly Bentley, chair of the board of trustees. “As we move forward, we’re committed to strengthening Bishop Miege High School by reviewing our practices and continuing to ensure a safe environment for our students. At the request of Archbishop McKnight, we’ll work with the archdiocesan Catholic Schools Office and the Office for Protection and Care to create opportunities for the school community to be heard and supported. We’ll share more information as it becomes available.”

On June 17, 2025, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas announced that Phil Baniewicz is restricted from all active ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas due to an allegation of inappropriate behavior with a minor. 

This action was made “in the interest of promoting the common good, protecting the vulnerable, and pursuing the truth of the matters being investigated,” Archbishop McKnight stated at that time. An independent, professional firm has been hired to conduct an investigation. 

The precautionary restrictions are no indication of guilt or wrongdoing; however, they will remain in place pending the results of any civil investigations and the archdiocesan investigation being conducted by the independent professional firm, along with any subsequent process in the Church’s judicial system.

For more information on the investigation, see https://archkck.org/phil-baniewicz-restricted-from-all-ministry-in-archdiocese-of-kansas-city-in-kansas/. 

Those who wish to report abuse should first contact civil authorities by calling the Kansas Protection Report Center at 1-800-922-5330 or, if there is an emergency, law enforcement.

If the person has concerns to report regarding a suspicion of abuse or safe environments, the archdiocesan Office for Protection and Care is prepared and eager to listen, using a trauma-informed approach. Please call or text our hotline number at 913-276-8703 or visit archkck.org/reportabuse.

New credible allegation against Benedictine Father John “Fidelis” Forrester

In late May, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas received a new allegation of abuse of a minor by Benedictine Father John “Fidelis” Forrester. Father Forrester is already on the Archdiocesan Substantiated Clergy Offenders list (see https://archkck.org/protection-and-care/office/substantiated-clergy-offenders/) due to previous substantiated allegations of abuse, reported earlier this year. Before his death in 2002, Father Forrester served in several parishes and schools in the archdiocese, including Camp St. Maur Hill, Maur Hill-Mount Academy and Mount St. Scholastica Academy in Atchison, Ursuline Academy in Paola, and Sts. Peter and Paul in Seneca. After receiving the Independent Review Board’s recommendation, Archbishop Shawn McKnight and Benedictine Abbot James Albers deemed the newly reported allegation substantiated.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.  

On June 17, 2025, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas announced that Phil Baniewicz is restricted from all active ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas due to an allegation of inappropriate behavior with a minor. These restrictions are based on previously unknown information, which has not been released in public media, provided to the archdiocese after the June 6 announcement that he was placed on administrative leave at Bishop Miege High School. This information has been reported to civil authorities.

Mr. Baniewicz is prohibited from engaging in youth ministry and volunteer work in any Catholic parish, school, institution or event in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. He is to refrain from representing the Church in any official, volunteer, ministerial, or leadership role. This includes participation in Life Teen, a Catholic youth ministry. In addition, Mr. Baniewicz has signed an archdiocesan safety plan which states he agrees not to contact anyone known to have made an accusation of abuse or misconduct against him, or who may be a witness known to him.

This action has been taken “in the interest of promoting the common good, protecting the vulnerable, and pursuing the truth of the matters being investigated,” Archbishop McKnight stated. 

The restrictions are imposed for the duration of the ongoing preliminary investigation and through any subsequent process conducted in the Church’s judicial system. 

These precautionary measures are no indication of guilt or wrongdoing.  

The archdiocese will provide no further information regarding the investigation until it is concluded.

In keeping with archdiocesan protocols, the archdiocesan Office for Protection and Care is prepared and eager to listen to those with concerns, using a trauma-informed approach. Please call or text our hotline number at 913-276-8703 or visit archkck.org/reportabuse. Report any abuse to civil authorities first by calling the Kansas Protection Report Center at 1-800-922-5330.

“Each of us has a responsibility to ensure a safe environment that protects the dignity of our vulnerable sisters and brothers, especially children and youth,” Archbishop McKnight said. “I am grateful for all who ensure our schools and parishes are healthy and holy environments where people can flourish. Please continue to pray for those impacted by this situation, especially those who have experienced harm. May Mary, Mother of the Church, protect and guide us as we strive to follow her son.” 

Media and Public Inquiries:
For general questions or inquiries related to the investigation, please contact the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Office of Communications at communications@archkck.org. Anyone with questions or concerns about safe environment should contact our Office for Protection, as stated above.

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) and St. Benedict’s Abbey (“Abbey”), announce that Father John “Fidelis” Forrester, OSB, has recently been the subject of substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor that occurred in this Archdiocese; he was previously found to have substantiated allegations outside of the Archdiocese. After a thorough investigation, these allegations were found credible. Fr. Forrester has been added to the Archdiocesan list of clerics with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of minors. 

Fr. Forrester served in the following parishes/schools during his parish ministry in the Archdiocese:

• Camp St. Maur Hill, Atchison
• Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Atchison
• Mount St. Scholastica Academy, Atchison
• Ursuline Academy, Paola
• St. Peter and St. Paul, Seneca

In addition, he served at these dioceses:

• Archdiocese of Seattle, Washington
• Diocese of Davenport, Iowa

The Archdiocese Substantiated Clergy Offenders listing on the website has been updated and can be found here: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org).

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and St. Benedict’s Abbey take all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and work to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) and St. Benedict’s Abbey (“Abbey”), Atchison, announce that Father Donald Redmond, OSB, has recently been the subject of substantiated allegations of abuse.  After a thorough investigation, these allegations were found credible. Fr. Redmond was previously published on this list, but additionally, he has substantiated allegations of abuse against an adult.

Fr. Redmond served in the following parishes/schools during his parish ministry in the Archdiocese:

• St. Peter and St. Paul, Seneca
• St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence
• Benedictine College, Atchison
• Sacred Heart Parish, Atchison
• St. James Parish, Wetmore
• Sacred Heart Parish, Sabetha
• St. Augustine Parish, Fidelity

In addition, he served in the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa.  

The Archdiocese Substantiated Clergy Offenders listing on the website has been updated and can be found here: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org).

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and St. Benedict’s Abbey take all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and work to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) announces that Father Joseph Cramer has recently been the subject of credible allegations of abuse. After a thorough investigation, these allegations were found to be substantiated. Fr. Cramer has been added to the Archdiocesan list of clerics with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of minors that occurred in this Archdiocese, and additionally, he has substantiated allegations of abuse against a vulnerable adult

Fr. Cramer served in the following parishes and schools during his parish ministry in the Archdiocese:

• Cure of Ars Catholic Church, Leawood
• Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park
• Holy Name Church, Topeka
• Hayden High School, Topeka
• Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Paxico
• Savior of the World High School Seminary (closed), Kansas City 
• St. Paul Catholic Church, Olathe
• Didde Catholic Campus Center (formerly Emporia State & Schooling)
• Assumption Parish (closed and consolidated with Sacred Heart, Emporia), Reading
• St. Leo’s Catholic Parish, Horton
• St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Purcell
• St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, Marysville
• St. Malachy’s Church, Beattie
• St. Philip Neri Church, Osawatomie
• Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Mound City
• Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, LaCygne
• Divine Mercy Parish (formerly Sacred Heart Catholic Church), Gardner

The Archdiocese Substantiated Clergy Offenders listing on the website has been updated and can be found here: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org).

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

On Sunday, November 24, 2024, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas was made aware of an ongoing police investigation concerning a recent complaint involving Father Carlos Martins of the Order of the Companions of the Cross.  The incident in question is alleged to have occurred on Thursday, November 21, 2024, during The Apostle of the Impossible: The Tour of the Relic of St. Jude, at the Queen of Apostles parish in Joliet, Illinois, and involved students. Fr. Martins has been temporarily suspended by the Companions of the Cross pending the outcome of the investigation. 

For more information about the investigation, please see public statements issued by the Diocese of Joliet and the Companions of the Cross.

The Tour of the Relic of St. Jude made several stops in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas from October 2, 2023 through November 7, 2024. These included visits to:

• Monday, October 2, 2023: St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood
• Tuesday, November 5: Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Topeka
• Wednesday, November 6: Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park
• Thursday, November 7: Holy Angels, Basehor

At this time, the Archdiocese has not received any reports of incidents involving Fr. Martins during his visits to northeast Kansas as part of the tour. We take all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and work to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. The Church has zero tolerance for sexual abuse of minors, which is applied in the broadest sense of the term. We encourage anyone with knowledge relating to this issue, or any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

On Thursday, August 8, 2024, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas became aware of an active criminal investigation by the Garnett Police Department of Fr. Daniel Stover. The matter regards an alleged incident involving an adult. Fr. Stover is the pastor of Holy Angels and St. John the Baptist in Garnett and Greeley.  Father Stover is entitled to a presumption of innocence at this time.

Fr. Stover has had his faculties for the public exercise of priestly ministry temporarily removed pending the outcome of this investigation. A precautionary removal of faculties is a step to protect all parties, and should not be viewed as an assertion of guilt. 

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement as this matter moves forward. If you have information regarding this matter, please contact Lieutenant/Detective Todd Turner of the Garnett Police Department at 785-504-4290.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

The Leaven | Dennis Schmitz Announcement

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) announces that former priest Dennis Schmitz, who was laicized from the priesthood in 2005, has been the subject of additional substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of minors and adults over whom he held a position of authority.  Mr. Schmitz served in a number of locations and capacities in the timeframe of the abuse in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including St. Joseph, Shawnee, Bishop Miege, Roeland Park, St. Mary – St. Anthony, Kansas City, St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence, and as Vocation Director for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. 

In October of 2002, Mr. Schmitz was convicted of indecent liberties with a child that occurred in 1998. He was removed from parish ministry, and the Church began the process of laicization. Mr. Schmitz was sentenced to 32 months in prison and was ordered to register on the Kansas Sexual Offender Registry for 25 years. In 2018 Mr. Schmitz was included in the Archdiocesan list of Substantiated Clergy Offenders: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org).

Through this announcement, the Archdiocese reaffirms its commitment to all who have been harmed by an agent of the Church, to atone for the harm, and to accompany survivors using restorative processes as they work toward healing and peace.

Along with the locations listed above, Mr. Schmitz served in the following churches/schools during his parish ministry in the Archdiocese:

• St. Ann, Prairie Village
• Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park
• Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park
• St. Joseph, Shawnee
• Vocation Director, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
• St. Mary-St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas
• St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center,  Lawrence
• St. Gregory, Marysville

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. The Catholic Church has a zero-tolerance policy for the sexual abuse of minors, which is applied in the broadest sense of the term. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) and St. Benedict’s Abbey (“Abbey”), Atchison, announce that Father Roderic Giller, OSB, who retired from parish ministry in July 2013, has been the subject of substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of minors during the time he was serving at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca. 

While the Archdiocese and Abbey first received these allegations in July 2004, they were treated at that time as boundary violations would be today. Further investigation was undertaken recently due to updated safe environment protocols and additional information. A better understanding of the events has resulted in the allegations being substantiated. The Catholic Church has a zero-tolerance policy for the sexual abuse of minors, which is applied in the broadest sense of the term. In making this announcement, the Archdiocese and Abbey reaffirm their commitment to all who have been harmed by an agent of the Church, to atone for the harm, and to accompany survivors using restorative processes as they work toward healing and peace. 

Fr. Giller served in the following parishes/schools during his parish ministry in the Archdiocese:

• St. John, Atchison
• St. Benedict, Atchison
• St. Joseph, Atchison
• St. Patrick, Atchison County
• St. Ann, Hiawatha
• Sacred Heart, Sabetha 
• St. Augustine, Fidelity
• St. Peter and St. Paul, Seneca
• St. Joseph, Wathena
• St. Charles, Troy
• St. Benedict, Bendena
• St. Benedict’s Abbey,  Atchison

The Archdiocese Substantiated Clergy Offenders listing on the website has been updated and can be found here: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org).

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and St. Benedict’s Abbey take all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and work to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the Archdiocese’s confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. 

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) announces that former priest Robert Aiduk, who left the priesthood in September 1967, and was subsequently voluntarily laicized in 2016, has been the subject of substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of two minors.while he was serving at Sacred Heart Parish, Mound City, Kansas. The Archdiocese first received these allegations in December 2022, stemming from abuse alleged to have occurred 1963-1967. In making this announcement, the Archdiocese reaffirms its commitment to all who have been harmed by an agent of the Church, to atone for the harm and to accompany survivors using restorative processes as they work toward healing and peace.

Aiduk served in the following parishes/schools during his time in the Archdiocese:
St. Ann Parish Prairie Village KS May 1957 – June 1959
St. Agnes Parish Kansas City KS June 1959 – August 1961
St. Peter’s Cathedral Kansas City KS August 1961 – June 1963
St. Theresa Parish Perry KS June 1963 – September 1963
Sacred Heart Parish Mound City KS September 1963 – September 1967

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to our confidential report line at 913-276-8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. We care about survivors of abuse. Victim Care Advocates can be reached at (913) 298-9244 or (913) 433-6701.

Rev. Francis “Lery” Wendling, OFM, a member of the Franciscan Friars Province of St. John the Baptist (Ohio) who died in 2017, has been the subject of two substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Franciscan Province. Father Wendling’s name will be added to the archdiocesan list of substantiated allegations which can be found at: Substantiated Clergy Offenders – Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (archkck.org). 

Ordained to the priesthood on June 14, 1962, Father Wendling served in a number of assignments throughout the United States.  Father Wendling served in the Archdiocese from 1978 to 1983 at Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, as the parochial vicar.  In addition to that assignment Father Wendling administered multiple sacraments, offered Masses and participated in events at his home parish of St. Joseph, Olpe. The Archdiocese Victim Care Advocate, Amy Stork, stands ready to support anyone who may have been harmed by Fr. Wendling.  Please text or call (913) 298-9244.

The Archdiocese has received allegations of sexual abuse of a minor accusing former Bishop Miege High School coach, teacher and counselor William (Bill) Van Hecke. Van Hecke was hired in the fall of 1971 as an English teacher. In 1979, he began working as a school counselor. In these years, Van Hecke also held numerous coaching positions. Van Hecke resigned in 1999 and pled guilty in March 2002 of a crime related to conduct when he was employed at Bishop Miege. Recently, the Archdiocese has become aware of and investigated two additional credible allegations accusing Van Hecke of sexual abuse of a minor. These allegations stem from the time frame in which Van Hecke was employed at Bishop Miege. Van Hecke has not served as an employee of Bishop Miege since his conviction.

The purpose of this announcement is to encourage anyone who may have been harmed by Van Hecke while he was employed by Bishop Miege to contact the authorities and then the Archdiocese Confidential Report Line at 913-647-3051. When addressing allegations of abuse, the Archdiocese employs restorative principles, which is a survivor-led approach.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to our confidential report line at 913-647-3051 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse. We care about survivors of abuse. Victim Care Advocate (913) 276-8703

Press Release — Bishop John Brungardt

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas today announced that Bishop John Brungardt will be resuming his duties as the Bishop of the Diocese of Dodge City. Bishop Brungardt does so after a 14 month period during which he stepped aside after an allegation of sexual abuse was made against him. Bishop Brungardt voluntarily withdrew from public ministry to facilitate the investigation of the allegation. During that period, the allegation was fully investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), following which civil authorities declined prosecution.

Following the KBI investigation, Church authorities conducted their own separate investigation of the allegation. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican has now determined that the allegation against Bishop Brungardt is not supported by the evidence and the case against him has been dismissed.
Bishop Brungardt has vigorously denied the allegation throughout, and he fully cooperated with both the civil and Church investigations. Throughout this entire 14 month period, Bishop Brungardt has been entitled to the presumption of innocence under both civil and Church law.

During Bishop Brungardt’s voluntary absence, Bishop Gerald Vincke of Salina served as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Dodge City. Bishop Brungardt has expressed his gratitude to Bishop Vincke for his many months of service to the faithful of the Diocese.

Now that Bishop Brungardt will be taking up his duties again, he has also expressed his appreciation for the thoroughness of both investigations and his eagerness to resume public ministry, “serving Almighty God and the good people of the Catholic Diocese of Dodge City.” At the same time, Bishop Brungardt urges everyone “to pray for and listen to all victims of sexual abuse.”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas today announced that Father John Pilcher will resume his duties as pastor of Mater Dei Parish in Topeka immediately. Father Pilcher does so after a seven-month period during which he stepped away from his duties after an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor was made against him. Father Pilcher was on a leave of absence from public ministry to facilitate the investigation of the allegation. During that period, the allegation was fully investigated by the Kansas
Bureau of Investigation (KBI). The Archdiocese has been informed that civil authorities have declined prosecution.

Per archdiocesan policy, the archdiocesan lay investigator also conducted a separate investigation of the allegation. Her findings were reviewed by the archdiocesan Independent Review Board (IRB) which then made its recommendation regarding the matter to Archbishop Naumann. Father Pilcher, who vigorously denies the allegation, has fully cooperated with both the civil and archdiocesan investigations. Following the internal review process and taking into account all the information available, Archbishop Naumann has determined that Father Pilcher is suitable to return to ministry. Archbishop Naumann makes this decision committed to the bedrock principle that a person should be afforded the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Archbishop Naumann has full confidence in Father Pilcher.

Father Pilcher is eager to resume public ministry, serving Mater Dei Parish and the Topeka community. The Archdiocese asks for continued prayers for all involved in this matter, and would also like to thank the dedicated parish and school staff, Father John Torrez, who has served as the parochial administrator of Mater Dei Parish, Fathers Joseph Chontos and Karl Good, who provided sacramental assistance and pastoral ministry, Deacons Robert Ortiz and Christopher Seago for their pastoral ministry, and the faithful parishioners who have offered their prayers for all parties in this difficult matter.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by any church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member to contact civil authorities first, and then make a report to our confidential report line at 913-276.8703 or online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

With deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“Archdiocese”) announces that William Haegelin, a priest who was removed from ministry in 2002 and laicized in 2004, has been the subject of a substantiated allegation of sexual abuse of a minor. Mr. Haegelin’s name had been listed among the Archdiocese’s Substantiated Clergy Offenders under the category “Previously Publicized Allegations Not Able to Be Substantiated” but is now listed under the category “Substantiated Allegations of Clergy Sexual Abuse of a Minor.”  The list may be found at www.archkck.org.    

William Haegelin was the subject of an investigation in 2002 that led to an inaccurate determination and announcement that he did not sexually abuse a minor.  The Archdiocese is particularly grateful for this survivor’s courage and strength in coming forward to challenge the decision to categorize Mr. Haegelin’s allegation as not able to be substantiated.  Due to this persistence, we are now able to acknowledge more fully the harm to the survivor and to better assist and support their healing.  Archbishop Naumann offers his sincere apology to the survivor, their family and community.

Mr. Haegelin served in the following parishes/schools during his time in the Archdiocese:
• St. Agnes, Roeland Park  
• Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City  
• Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City
• Christ the King, Kansas City  
• St. Lawrence, Easton, & St. Joseph of the Valley, Leavenworth  
• Immaculata High School, Leavenworth
• Sacred Heart – St. Casimir, Leavenworth    
• St. Ann, Prairie Village  

Archbishop Naumann urges anyone harmed by William Haegelin to contact both law enforcement and the Archdiocese. The Archdiocese takes very seriously its obligation to address any allegation of abuse or misconduct by church personnel. The archdiocesan victim care advocate will accompany victim/survivors through the archdiocesan process. 

To report any allegations of abuse, contact the Kansas Protection Report Center at 800.922.5330.  If there is immediate danger or someone is injured, call local law enforcement as well.  If the suspected abuse or misconduct involves an Archdiocesan cleric, employee or volunteer, please also contact Jan Saylor on the Confidential Report Line at 913.276.8703 or www.archkck.org/reportabuse. Ms. Saylor will connect anyone reporting harm to the victim care advocate who will offer immediate support.