Denver Priest Alleged to Have Abused Victim Over Decades, State Report Reveals Church’s Failure to Act

In a revelation that has shocked many, a Denver priest, Monsignor Lawrence St. Peter, has been identified in a state report as having sexually abused a young boy, Neil Elms, who was a student at Holy Family School in northwest Denver. Elms, who had kept this secret for 37 years, was prompted to disclose the abuse after reading a report by Colorado’s attorney general that detailed credible allegations against St. Peter.

The report, which scrutinizes the actions of 43 priests across Colorado’s Catholic dioceses, highlights the extraordinary nature of the allegations against St. Peter, not only due to their severity but also because of the church’s failure to address and halt his misconduct. This failure is partly attributed to St. Peter’s significant influence and access to his own personnel files, which he gained through his high-ranking positions within the Denver Archdiocese.

In the 1980s, St. Peter ascended to prominent roles, including vicar of priests, a position that granted him access to his records. Following the death of Archbishop James Casey in 1986, St. Peter served as the interim administrator of the archdiocese until Archbishop J. Francis Stafford took over. His contributions to the church were later recognized when he was named a monsignor in 1988.

The attorney general’s investigation suggests that there were likely many more victims of St. Peter’s abuse, as the report indicates at least three credible allegations. This situation underscores the importance of accountability and transparency within institutions, aligning with the biblical call to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). The church, like any community, must uphold these values to ensure justice and care for all, particularly the most vulnerable.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance and the protection of victims, emphasizing the Christian principles of truth, mercy, and justice. The church is called to reflect on its responsibilities and to seek repentance and healing for those harmed, embodying the biblical mandate to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8-9).

Source: Read the original report