ERIE — The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, bishop of Erie, has announced that Msgr. Charles
Kaza, pastor of St. Tobias Parish, Brockway, has been reinstated to active ministry.
Members of the parish were notified during Mass earlier today, that Kaza will return to his assignment as their pastor effective Monday.
Consistent with diocesan policy, Kaza had been removed from active ministry and placed on administrative leave on May 13, 2019, as the result of an allegation of abuse made against him. As noted at that time,Kaza cooperated with the investigation.
“We take all allegations very seriously, and this was no exception,” Persico said. “This allegation, specifically the identity of the perpetrator, could not be sufficiently substantiated and remains unknown.”
Persico acknowledged the difficulty involved for everyone concerned, including Kaza and his parishioners as well as victims of sexual abuse.
“In these investigations, finding the truth and taking appropriate action for the benefit of the victim remains our goal,” Persico said.
In making the announcement, Persico expressed his gratitude to the Rev. Leo Gallina, a retired priest, who served as temporary administrator of St. Tobias Parish during the past year.
