The following statement was made by Fr. Thomas Knoblach after the 4pm mass on Saturday night (November 12, 2011) at the Church of the Holy Spirit in St. Cloud:
“We do have one additional, difficult announcement. There has been an allegation of sexual misconduct involving a former deacon, Deacon Michael Willard Weber. Because of the allegation, Bishop (John) Kinney has asked the Diocesan Response Team to hold a listening session for the people of Holy Spirit parish, in which Deacon Michael Weber served. There will be a listening session at the Church of the Holy Spirit on Sunday, Dec. 4, at 4 p.m. Michael Weber served as a deacon at the Church of the Holy Spirit for four to five months, from 1969 to 1970. You’re invited to attend this listening session. This session has three primary goals. First, to assure parishioners of Bishop Kinney’s support and assistance. Second, to offer a process whereby sexual misconduct issues and concerns can be voiced and discussed. Third, to allow other potential victims the opportunity to come forward and receive assistance and healing. The Diocesan Response Team will be present for any parishioners who wish to attend. The listening session will not be open to the news media, to protect the privacy of individuals. If you have questions or concerns, you’re asked to contact the Chancery on Monday.”
Note: After Sunday’s (November 13, 2011) mass, Fr. Knoblach’s used the word “allegations” instead of “allegation”.
