Roman Catholic Diocese Auxiliary Bishop Robert C. Evans Sunday
announced the resignation of Rev. Barry Meehan, pastor of St. Timothy
Catholic Church in Warwick.
Reading a statement on behalf of Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, Evans said
the diocese confronted Meehan with "credible" allegations of sexual
abuse.
Father Meehan, the statement said, willingly submitted his
resignation to the diocese, although he denied "any improper activity."
Evans said the diocese reported the allegations, that date back more
25 years, to the R.I. State Police.
The diocese said it also
investigated the allegations.
Evans, addressing the congregation at mass Saturday night and Sunday,
said "this is a very difficult time for the victim of this alleged
abuse and his family, Father Meehan and the people of this parish."
After Evans finished reading the letter, some congregants began to weep.