KANSAS CITY —On Wednesday, the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph reported that on August 1, the diocese became aware of an accusation of inappropriate sexual contact with a minor between 1982-1984 in the Archdiocese of St. Louis made against Brother Ralph Wehner through a pending lawsuit, according to a statement on diocese web site.
An initial investigation was immediately launched by the diocese to determine any potential connection to Deacon Ralph Wehner who is assigned to the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.
Based on the findings of the initial investigation, Bishop Johnston initiated a preliminary canonical investigation on August 7. Deacon Ralph Wehner has been placed on precautionary suspension from exercising diaconal ministry. Precautionary suspension from ministry should not be viewed as a punishment or as indication of wrongdoing, but rather a protective measure for all persons involved.
The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion.
We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the diocese’s confidential report line 816-812-2500 or email [email protected].