Albany, N.Y., Sep 1, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Four priests from the Diocese of Albany are denying allegations that they molested minors and have requested canonical trials to challenge their removal from ministry, reported the Associated Press.
The diocesan review panel found the claims against Frs. John Connolly, Joseph Romano, James Kelly and James McNerney to be credible.
However, Vatican officials have taken up the cause and are reviewing the cases, a spokesman for Bishop Howard Hubbard told the Times Union of Albany.
The four priests are among 20 in the diocese removed from ministry since 1950 after being accused of abusing minors.