Catholic priest Fr Elton Letang exonerated and back to active priestly duties

Six months after the Roman Catholic confirmed that a priest had been removed as head of a parish covering six geographical following accusations of alleged inappropriate behaviour he has now been exonerated. A statement from the Diocese of Roseau and the Redemptorists of the Baltimore Province stated that Fr Elton Letang had been placed on an “indefinite leave of absence as the parish priest of St Paul and St Ann. “

According to the statement, the priest is not now permitted to minister in any capacity in the Diocese of Roseau or elsewhere while the Redemptorists are investigating the accusations made against him.

It said that the Diocese of Roseau and the Redemptorist take “all accusations of misconduct seriously” and steps are being taken to examine the case.

The Roman Catholic Church, which did not indicate the “inappropriate behaviour” said there will be no further comment on the issue at this time and that the process will take its course to ensure fairness, care, and concern to all parties involved.

But in a prepared statement read in the church from Provincial Superior of the Redemptorist Fr Paul Borowski, it stated that “on June 6, 2021, the diocese of Roseau and the Baltimore providence said they had received an accusation of inappropriate behavior against Fr Elton Letang. The established investigative procedure was initiated. The procedure mandated the removal of Fr. Letang as Parish Priest and prohibited him from administering within the diocese and elsewhere during the investigation.”

“After conducting such investigation, the Redemptorists can report no evidence of behaviour that can preclude Fr. Letang back to active ministry as a priest with good standing (thunderous applause). During his time away from ministry and parish, Fr Letang has engaged in intensive therapy and reflection which has enabled him to understand himself better. He was able to revisit significant moments in his life which help to contribute to the person he is today.”

“It is with this in mind, that the Redemptorists are pleased to inform you that after the investigations Fr Letang will be returning to ministry but not in Dominica. He will be transferred to the island of St. Lucia where he will join the Redemptorists in St. Lucia. Fr Letang…let us continue to pray for him and we thank you for your prayers.” Letang was ordained a Catholic priest by Bishop of Roseau, Gabriel Malzaire, in June 2013.