St. Cloud priest who pleaded guilty to sex abuse is dismissed from priesthood

While serving a prison sentence for criminal sexual conduct, Anthony Oelrich had remained a priest

Nov 23, 20220

A St. Cloud priest who spent more than two years in prison after pleading guilty to criminal sexual conduct is no longer a member of the priesthood, church officials said Tuesday.

Bishop Donald Kettler formally reviewed the status of Anthony Oelrich and recommended that he seek his own dismissal from the priesthood, a process called laicization, Kettler said in a statement. Oelrich agreed to do so, and the process is now complete.

"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," Kettler said. Oelrich, who was released from prison Oct. 17, also may no longer call himself "Father."

https://www.startribune.com/convicted-st-cloud-priest-dismissed-from-priesthood/600228930/