GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY 10021 Tel: (212) 570-3530 Fax: (212) 774-0215 Web: http://www.goarch.org Email: communications@goarch.org
For Immediate Release: February 22, 2007
Contact: Rev. Dr. Frank Marangos Cell: 617-680-7222 Email: communications@goarch.org
DALLAS CLERGYMAN SUSPENDED
In response to further inquiries, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America provides the following:
As communicated to the faithful in the Orthodox Observer, the Rev. Fr. Nicholas Katinas, formerly the pastor of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Dallas, Texas, has been suspended from all priestly functions, effective July 5, 2006.
After a thorough investigation of allegations of serious misconduct involving minors, Fr. Katinas was suspended in accordance with the Archdiocese's Statement of Policy Regarding Sexual Misconduct by Clergy. As a result of the suspension, Fr. Katinas can no longer perform any liturgical, sacramental or other priestly functions. The suspension, in accordance with existing Canon Law practices, is valid for all Orthodox Christian jurisdictions.
Parish administrators of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church were notified of the suspension in July 2006. On February 20 and 21, 2007 further information regarding the suspension was communicated to the Holy Trinity community during an official visit by the Rev. Fr. Michael Kontogiorgis, Assistant Chancellor of the Archdiocese.
"This necessary disciplinary action was taken with deep sorrow and pain," commented His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios. "We grieve for those who were affected by the misconduct. We also grieve with Fr. Katinas, his family and with those whose lives were positively influenced by his priesthood. We fervently pray for healing for all involved in this tragic situation."
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