Update on Queen of the Holy Rosary in Bucyrus – Wea, Kansas

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, on August 14, 2025, Father Jerry was temporarily suspended from the public exercise of priestly ministry, including celebrating Mass publicly 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. 

An investigation remains ongoing by the Miami County Sheriff’s Office. The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with law enforcement. In accordance with standard protocol, Archbishop Shawn McKnight has suspended the Church’s internal investigation until the civil investigation has concluded. Anyone with information or concerns about this situation is encouraged to contact the Miami County Sheriff’s Office at (913) 294-3232. 

To view an update to the Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church community, visit here. 

Archbishop Shawn McKnight has appointed Deacon Tom Doyle as the temporary parish coordinator for Queen of the Holy Rosary 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.