A caring priest

There have been numerous articles in the media about Fr. Denis Carneiro, a retired priest who served at several parishes in the Chicago area. He is facing an allegation of sexually abusing a minor in India 60 years ago. We are not qualified to comment on the merits of the case but feel obligated to share our experiences of Fr. Denis who has served as the Spiritual Director of The India Catholic Association of America for almost 40 years.

Fr. Denis has provided exceptional and diligent services as Spiritual Director of ICAA — celebrating mass before our social functions; preparing and presenting very thoughtful and inspirational homilies; blessing weddings and other special occasions of our members; and offering spiritual guidance to any of our members who sought it. He was always willing to help people. Everything he did was provided in a most caring, professional and gracious manner. He truly cared for his ICAA flock, as we cared for him.

Speaking for myself and India Catholic Association of America advisory board members Gerard Aranha, Peter Noronha and Leo Martis, we will offer him every support we can to tide him through this most difficult time.

Allwyn Baptist

Arlington Heights