A victim group is demanding the removal of a Bishop Miege High School leader and a Lenexa priest who have been accused of abuse. The group, Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), is calling for the removal of Father Scott Kallal, a priest at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lenexa, and Bishop Miege principal Father Thomas C. Hermes.
The demand comes after Father Kallal was charged with two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child under the age of 14, and Father Hermes was accused of sexual misconduct with a student from 1987 to 1991. SNAP is asking the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to remove both men from their positions while the allegations are investigated.
SNAP has also called for more transparency from the Catholic Church and for victims to be given a voice in the process. The group has criticized the church for not taking action sooner and for allowing accused priests to remain in positions of power.
The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has said that it takes all allegations of abuse seriously and that it is cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation. The church has also stated that it has a zero-tolerance policy for abuse and that it is committed to preventing abuse and protecting children.
The demands from SNAP come at a time when the Catholic Church is facing increased scrutiny over its handling of abuse cases. The group is pushing for accountability and justice for victims of abuse, and is urging the church to take a stronger stance against those accused of misconduct.
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