Disgraced St. Cloud Priest Defrocked

(KNSI) — A priest in the Diocese of St. Cloud has been defrocked.

Father Anthony Oelrich was released from prison in October after admitting he initiated a sexual relationship with a woman who went to him for spiritual guidance.

Bishop Donald Kettler issued a statement Tuesday afternoon that reads:

“In regard to the status of Father Anthony Oelrich, I previously indicated that I would conduct a formal review of his status after civil and criminal proceedings against him had concluded. This review was initiated and included interviews with a variety of people, including those impacted by his actions. After reviewing all of the information, I recommended to Father Oelrich, and he agreed, that he should seek laicization – being dispensed from the clerical state – from the Holy Father. This process has been completed and Father Oelrich has been laicized. As a result, he no longer can exercise sacred ministry in the Church or engage in any leadership roles in the Church. He does not receive any salary, housing or medical benefits from the diocese.

“I ask you to please pray for healing for all victims-survivors of sexual abuse and for those wounded by the Church in any way. As we approach the season of Advent, may we find renewed hope in the promise of Christ as we prepare to welcome him into our lives and our hearts.”

In addition, Oelrich is no longer permitted to use the title “Father.”

Oelrich was serving as a priest at the Christ Church Newman Center in St. Cloud when he was arrested in 2018 and charged with sexual assault. He pleaded guilty to one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and was sentenced to three years and five months in prison in July 2020. Minnesota law requires a person to serve two-thirds of their sentence in prison and the other third on supervised release.

Bishop Kettler encourages anyone who has suffered abuse to report it to the police. Survivors of clergy abuse may also contact the diocese victim assistance coordinator of advocates for support.

Learn more by clicking here.

___