BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) — A controversial leader in the Catholic church who came to Battle Creek to help out in the St. Phillips Parish has decided to bow out of the temporary appointment, following revelations about his past.
Archbishop Emeritus John Nienstedt stepped down from his leadership position in the St. Paul-Minneapolis Catholic community following charges filed by the local prosecutor that the diocese had covered up the misdeeds of a particular priest and failed to look out for the interests of children. There were also specific allegations against Nienstedt that were either determined to be unfounded or never pursued.
He left as a priest in good standing with the church, and it was with that status that he offered to fill in for Father John Fleckenstein as he pursued treatment for a medical problem.
That’s when the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, an organization that represents priest sexual abuse victims, contacted local media and made them aware of the archbishop’s history.
Nienstedt claimed he was targeted because of his hard-line adherence to Catholic policy on gay-marriage and other issues.
In a letter just released to parishioners, Fleckenstein announced Neinstedt’s decision to leave.
“Archbishop Nienstedt has a deep concern for the church, and, in light of the unintended discord that his presence was causing, he decided that this would be the best course of action so the church can remain focused on its mission,” Fleckenstein said.
Bishop Paul Bradley also issued a statement that he had cleared the archbishop after doing a background check, but failed to consider the emotional response his appointment might create among parishioners.
– John McNeill
