Search
Statement Regarding Rev. Juan Chavajay's Placement on Administrative Leave
-
May 5, 2024Statement Regarding Rev. Juan Chavajay's Placement on Administrative Leave
On May 1, 2024, Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz placed Rev. Juan Chavajay, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Canton, on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation involving sexual misconduct with an adult. After a preliminary investigation, the Diocese deemed the allegations of misconduct credible/plausible. After receiving credible claims of misconduct, Diocesan protocols require the accused priest to be placed on leave and removed from ministry pending a complete investigation conducted in accordance with church law.
The Diocese of Jackson is committed to protecting the dignity of the human person. Sexual misconduct by church personnel violates human dignity and the mission of the Church. The Diocese is committed to ensuring that all being served by the Church are not at risk of sexual abuse by Church personnel. The spiritual well-being of all victims, their families, and others in the community is of particular concern to the Church.
The Diocese therefore urges anyone who has been a victim of abuse by church personnel, who has not yet reported the abuse, to come forward and do so. Our victims' assistance coordinator, Erika Rojas, a licensed social worker, is available to assist in making a report. Ms. Rojas’ telephone number is 601.326.3736.
For more than twenty years, the Diocese has developed and implemented a safe environment program. The Diocese has publicized standards of conduct for priests and deacons, as well as diocesan employees, volunteers, and any other church personnel in positions of trust who have regular contact with minors and vulnerable adults.
For more information about Diocesan policies and procedures, visit our website at www.jacksondiocese.org.
###
Click here for pdf of this statement.