NEW YORK — An allegation of sexual misconduct of a minor has been made against the Rev. Hayden Vaverek, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston in South Carolina. The alleged misconduct occurred more than 15 years ago when Father Vaverek was pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Greenwood, S.C. According to the Diocese of Charleston, Father Vaverek was “placed on administrative leave and his priestly faculties withdrawn. Diocesan officials have notified law enforcement authorities about this allegation and are fully cooperating with them.”
Father Vaverek joined the Catholic Near East Welfare Association in January 2011, conducting its parish outreach program.
To ensure that our children are safe and secure, CNEWA is sending this press release to those parishes that have participated in its parish outreach program. CNEWA’s president, Msgr. John E. Kozar, encourages all victims and those with any knowledge of any sexual misconduct of minors to contact the appropriate civil authorities.
CNEWA offers its prayers for all victims of abuse, their families and for all parties involved.
Contact: Michael La Civita
Chief Communications Officer
Tel: (212) 826-1480, extension 550
Email: mjl@cnewa.org