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Priest on administrative leave following allegation of sexual misconduct

 

 

April 2, 2018

MARQUETTE — Father Frank M. Lenz, a senior (retired) priest of the Diocese of Marquette, has been placed on administrative leave effective immediately. This action was taken as the result of a recently-made credible allegation of sexual misconduct with a minor dating back to the 1970s. Lenz has denied the allegation.

In accord with diocesan policy, the allegation has been reported to the Marquette County Prosecutor.

           

The diocese has extended an offer of pastoral care to the person bringing the allegation.

           

Lenz has been removed from all public priestly ministry and prohibited from presenting himself as a priest in accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. According to the Diocese, "it should be noted that this is not a final determination of guilt. Administrative leave is a precautionary measure while a credible allegation is being investigated."

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Lenz assignment history:

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  • Priesthood Ordination June 7, 1969

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  • 1969 Parochial Vicar Sacred Heart Munising 1969

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  • 1973 Parochial Vicar St. Peter, Marquette

 

  • 1975 Parochial Vicar St. Francis De Sales, Manistique with mission in Gulliver

 

  • 1978 Pastor St. Andrew Nahma with missions in Cooks and Isabella

 

  • 1982 Pastor St. Stanislaus Goeztville with mission in Hessel  in addition the missions in DeTour and Drummond Island in 1983

 

  • 1985 Graduate studies at Duquesne University Pittsburgh

 

  • 1988 Chaplain Marquette General Hospital

 

  • 2001 Pastor Holy Family Flat Rock

 

  • 2007 Retired to Senior Priest status

           

“On behalf of the Catholic Church, I offer a sincere apology to all victims of clergy abuse. There is no excuse for what happened to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and I am willing to journey with you to find Christ’s peace and healing," said Bishop Doerfler.

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Doerfler is encouraging anyone who may have suffered sexual misconduct by clergy, a church worker or volunteer  to come forward to receive pastoral care leading toward healing.The church would also like individuals to report their case to civil authorities. 

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To bring a complaint regarding the sexual abuse of minors to the attention of the diocese, call one of the victims’ assistance coordinators: Stephen Lynott at (844) 495-4330 or Diane Tryan at (844) 694-4362.

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Those who wish to put their complaint in writing may direct their correspondence to: Victim’s Assistance Coordinator, c/o Catholic Social Services of the U.P., 1100 Ludington St., Suite 401, Escanaba, MI 49829. The letter should be marked “personal and confidential” and indicate whether a response is desired by phone or by letter.

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The diocese has noted they will help anyone bring their concerns to church officials outside the diocese if the sexual abuse occurred elsewhere and the person now resides in the Diocese of Marquette. If you are unsure about bringing a complaint or would like further information, Stephen Lynott or Diane Tryan may be contacted at the numbers above.

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