From OSV News:
Msgr. Roger J. Landry has taken a temporary leave from his position as director of the Pontifical Mission Societies USA, following allegations he violated priestly conduct codes for two dioceses with which he is affiliated.
The news was announced by both TPMS USA and the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts, where Msgr. Landry is incardinated, in separate statements issued Sept. 11.
Both statements confirmed the allegations do not involve minors. The Diocese of Fall River emphasized in its statement that Msgr. Landry is “entitled to the presumption of innocence while the investigation continues.”
Msgr. Landry also issued a Sept. 11 statement, saying that his decision to temporarily step down was “voluntary” for “the sake of protecting the important work” of TPMS USA “as well as my own reputation as a priest.”
He clarified that the Fall River Diocese had “verbally communicated” to him that “the accusations involve alleged violations of prudence, pastoral boundaries, and diocesan codes of conduct with adults.
“There are no allegations of sexual activity whatsoever or of misconduct of any kind with a minor,” said Msgr. Landry. “I maintain my innocence of any canonical violation or crime and will continue to defend my reputation to the best of my ability under the law of the Church.”
He added, “Those who have raised concerns deserve to be heard.”
Msgr. Landry also said he was “grateful that canon law respects my natural human right to be presumed innocent and the right to protect the good reputation I have enjoyed throughout the many years the Lord has given me the privilege to serve Him and His holy people.”
He said he was “cooperating fully with the investigation, with trust that a fair investigation will establish the truth that the Lord promises will set us free.”
Msgr. Landry said he was advised the investigation and ecclesiastical process “might take up to several months,” and asked for prayers for himself and “all those concerned.”
