Statement: Update regarding the Reverend Shaun Lowery, May 2, 2022
The Reverend Shaun Lowery was placed on ministerial leave from his post as Pastor of St. Mary Magdalen in Brighton in March 2021 pending an investigation by the Michigan Attorney General. Rooted in a commitment to the highest standards of conduct on the part of all clergy, staff and volunteers, the Diocese of Lansing fully cooperated with the Attorney General’s investigation.
In May 2021, the Diocese was informed that the Attorney General had closed its investigation and would not be bringing charges against Father Lowery.
The conclusion of the Attorney General’s investigation then allowed the Diocese of Lansing to proceed with its own investigation under the Church’s Code of Canon Law.
On April 17, 2022, Father Lowery tendered his resignation as Pastor of Saint Mary Magdalen to Bishop Earl Boyea of Lansing. Bishop Boyea accepted Father Lowery’s resignation and has appointed Father Paul Erickson as the new pastor of Saint Mary Magdalen effective April 25, 2022. Father Erickson has been serving as parish administrator the past year.
In the meantime, the canonical process initiated in May 2021 continues. Father Lowery remains on ministerial leave and without public faculties. As has been the case throughout, no more information can be shared publicly until the matter has been brought to a conclusion by the Holy See whereupon the Diocese of Lansing will make a further public statement.
ENDS
The Diocese of Lansing expects that all diocesan employees, clergy, and volunteers will exemplify the moral teachings of Jesus Christ and His Holy Catholic Church in their personal and professional life. See Diocesan Code of Conduct. Anyone wishing to report misconduct may do so here.
If anyone has reason to suspect physical, sexual or emotional abuse of any person of any age, please contact Protective Services or the police, as appropriate. If abuse by anyone connected to the Church is suspected, please also contact our Victim Assistance Coordinator at (888) 308-6252 or email: vac@dioceseoflansing.org. Anyone reporting clergy abuse can do so directly to the Michigan Attorney General here or by calling the investigation hotline at 844-324-3374.
