Catholic Diocese Of Dallas Makes Revelation Regarding Investigation Into Priests
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Demands of accountability and transparency continue to come from parishioners at a Catholic church where a priest is accused of sexually abusing boys in Dallas.
The Catholic Diocese of Dallas revealed it has been working with local and federal investigators to review the files of all its priests.
The news revealed Tuesday night by Dallas Catholic Bishop Edward Burns at a ceremony of sorrows to address allegations of pedophilia at Saint Cecilia Catholic Church.
Bishop Burns said every practicing priest in Dallas was reviewed and cleared by a team of former FBI agents and law enforcement investigators.
Now they're turning their attention to former Dallas priests.
Bishop Burns removed his ceremonial clothes and laid before the cross to show repentance Tuesday night.
"Healing is going to take time, and yet when the flock is shaken, it's important that the shepherd be present," he said.
Allegations of sexual abuse have surfaced against a beloved priest, Reverend Edmundo Paredes.
The Dallas Diocese says he was first suspended and removed from ministry in June 2017 after financial irregularities were discovered at the church.
In February 2018, three adult men made credible accusations of sexual assault by Father Paredes that happened when they were in their mid-teens.
Law enforcement and private investigators continue to look for Parades who is on the run.
Aside from the ceremony for forgiveness, a town hall was held at St. Cecilia Church where the faithful could ask questions in private.
Bishop Burns told CBS 11 News any priest who has a credible accusation of sexual assault with be defrocked as soon as the allegation to determined to be credible.
One question that came up over and over again was how would predator priests be punished and held accountable.
There was no answer.
This was one of four listening sessions by the Dallas Diocese. For details on the next ones, click here.