Louisiana church remembers abuse victims after reversal over prayers for convicted priest
Summary
A Louisiana Catholic church initially asked its community to pray for a former priest sentenced to life in prison for sexual assault but later changed this to focus on praying for victims of clergy abuse. The priest, Anthony Odiong, was convicted in Texas for abusing his role to harm women, including while serving at the Louisiana church. Church leaders now emphasize support and prayers for those hurt by Odiong’s actions.Key Facts
- Anthony Odiong, a former Catholic priest, was sentenced to life in prison for first- and second-degree sexual assault.
- The crimes involved abusing his spiritual authority to have sexual relationships without consent.
- Odiong served at St Anthony of Padua church in Louisiana after working in Waco, Texas, where he was convicted.
- The church first included Odiong’s name in prayer intentions, which led to complaints from victims.
- Following the complaints, the church removed Odiong’s name and replaced it with a prayer focus on abuse victims.
- The archbishop of New Orleans ordered prayers to include all victims harmed by Odiong.
- The bishop of Austin, Texas, also expressed support and prayers for victims and the community affected.
- Mary Doe, one of the victims, started the criminal case after reading a news report about other women’s accusations.
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