Western American Diocese: Press release regarding Father Daniel MacKay

Statement from the Western American Diocese Regarding the Arrest of Father Daniel MacKay

Alhambra, CA – The Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church has been informed that Father Daniel J. MacKay, age 42, was arrested on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, in Lane County, Oregon. Father Daniel was contacted by police and arrested on charges stemming from allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor and possession of a controlled substance. While the criminal proceedings are pending and until the conclusion of ecclesiastical proceedings, Father Daniel will be suspended from all pastoral duties to which he was assigned.

While everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the Western American Diocese nonetheless takes allegations of misconduct in any form very seriously and must act accordingly to insure the safety and security of all our Orthodox parishioners and others as we conduct our worship and ministries together. Such misconduct is abhorrent and not condoned by the Holy Orthodox Faith. We are deeply concerned and pray for all involved.

The Western American Diocese stands ready to cooperate with the civil authorities. Further, anyone who might be, or knows someone that has been, a victim of sexual abuse by a member of the diocesan clergy, church employee or volunteer should first call the police and then report the matter, confidentially, to the Diocesan ombudsman at +1.415.930.9069.

Source: westsrbdio.org