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Statement Regarding Rev. Justin Joseph's Placement on Administrative Leave
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May 27, 2024On May 8, 2024, in accord with protocols of the Diocese of Jackson, Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz placed Rev. Justin Joseph, associate pastor of St. James Parish in Tupelo, on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation involving sexual misconduct with an adult.
Diocesan protocols in this instance require the accused priest to be placed on leave. During this time as a safeguard to protect the rights of all involved including himself, Rev. Joseph is to have no contact with parishioners and staff. His faculties are temporarily removed, which precludes him from exercising priestly ministry publicly. He may celebrate Mass privately.
We offer prayers for all involved in this matter. We assert that under the law an individual is innocent until proven guilty. The investigative process needs some time to be completed and we ask for your patience and understanding during this time.
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, you can visit our diocesan website at www.jacksondiocese.org.
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