Worcester diocese seeks to have Filipino priest defrocked

WORCESTER, Massachusetts—The Roman Catholic Diocese of Worcester has asked the Vatican to defrock a Filipino priest who is facing charges of possessing child pornography and stealing from his parish in the US.

A spokesman for the diocese tells The Telegram & Gazette newspaper that Bishop Robert McManus has asked the pope to defrock the Rev. Lowe Dongor.

Diocese officials say they are seeking to laicize Dongor in the wake of a “clarification” last spring by Vatican officials child pornography possession is grounds for removal from the priesthood.

Authorities say images of preteen girls were found on Dongor’s computer during service. He also allegedly stole $40 to $60 from St. Joseph parish in Fitchburg on several occasions. He was released after pleading not guilty and suspended from ministry. It is believed he has fled to his native Philippines.