Carmelite priest removed from ministry

Late yesterday, the Diocese of Tucson was made aware of an allegation of sexual misconduct involving a Carmelite priest, Fr. Edgar Lopez, serving at Salpointe Catholic High School and Saint Cyril of Alexandria Parish. Upon learning of the allegation, the Provincial for the Carmelite Order, Fr. Carl Markels, O.Carm., suspended Fr. Lopez from ministry. Upon Fr. Markels informing Bishop Edward Weisenburger, he too removed Fr. Lopez from all ministerial assignments in our diocese.
 
The alleged misconduct is reported to have involved a minor, and is alleged to have taken place more than ten years ago in another state. The allegation is not, in any way, related to Salpointe Catholic High School, St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church, or any persons in the Diocese of Tucson. In the Catholic Church's teaching and in law, a person is presumed innocent until there is proof of guilt. The allegation has been reported to law enforcement locally and in the state where the abuse is alleged to have occurred, and is under investigation by law enforcement.
 
The Diocese of Tucson is committed to the support and protection of children and vulnerable adults, as well as the prevention of any sexual misconduct. If anyone is aware of additional information concerning these allegations, please contact local law enforcement immediately. Bishop Edward Weisenburger encourages any victim-survivors of sexual abuse to call 911 and then call the Diocese of Tucson reporting hotline (520) 838-2513 or (520) 838-2567. You can also report online: https://diocesetucson.org/reportabuse