A priest in Lansing has lost is priestly permissions after an adult male made a credible sexual assault allegation.

According to WOOD, Rev. Robert Gerl is suspected of sexual assault and the Diocese of Lansing are reaching out to the public to see if there are any more victims.

Gerl, currently in Lansing, used to serve at the Kalamazoo at Nazareth College from 1986 to 1991. Then moved on to the St. Thomas More Parish in Kalamazoo from 1997 to 2000. Then at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Portage from 2000 to 2009.

Michigan Attorney General, Bill Schuette, launched an investigation of sexual abuse allegations along with possible cover ups that involved seven of Michigan's dioceses and executed search warrants at all of the dioceses.

Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese has identified 14 priests who molested children dating from the 1950s.

The Diocese of Kalamazoo released the following statement regarding the situation:

On October 5, 2018, the Diocese of Lansing announced that they had officially removed priestly faculties for Rev. Robert Gerl, an incardinated priest for the Diocese of Lansing, due to a credible allegation of sexual assault of an adult male which occurred decades ago. Fr. Gerl served in pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Kalamazoo at Nazareth College (1986-1991), St. Thomas More Parish, Kalamazoo (1997-2000) and St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Portage, (2000-2009). Additionally he regularly celebrated Masses at a number of other parishes during this time on a temporary weekend basis. Fr. Gerl does not have faculties for pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Kalamazoo.

If you, or anyone you know, has been harmed by Fr. Gerl or anyone representing the Church, contact appropriate law enforcement. You may also contact the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator Deacon Pat Hall, 877-802-0115.

 

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