Trending
Staff report
Chorbishop Anthony Spinosa has been relieved of his ministerial assignment at the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in North Jackson.
A Tuesday letter from A. Elias Zaidan, bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles, posted on the shrine's website states that he relieved Spinosa from his ministerial assignment "with immediate effect."
It states that Rev. Michael Shami has agreed to immediately assume, "during this time of transition, responsibility as temporary administrator for the Basilica and National Shrine starting (Tuesday)."
The letter states that Zaidan wrote the letter "in response to the charges that have been made against Chorbishop Anthony Spinosa. Like you, I am saddened and looking for answers, which will only come when the civil authorities have completed their investigation and any subsequent legal action."
The letter asked for "your prayers for Choirbishop Spinosa and all persons involved."
Spinosa was charged in Warren Municipal Court with procuring, a first-degree misdemeanor, and public indecency, a second-degree misdemeanor, following a July 31 incident at Perkins Park in Warren in which a caller reported that he and his wife saw two men engaged in sexual activity in the park.
During an investigation by Warren police, Kenneth Kopp, 53, was arrested. Police spoke with Spinosa at the scene. He denied knowing Kopp and was released. The charges were filed against Spinosa Aug. 3, according to Warren Municipal Court records.
Spinosa, 75, pleaded not guilty Friday and was released on bond. He has a second hearing Sept. 14.