Diocese Suspends Retired Priest From Ministry Author: The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D. In the News 26 Jan 2020 Share FALL RIVER – The Diocese of Fall River today announced the suspension of retired priest Father Herbert T. Nichols for an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor, alleged to have occurred approximately 20 years ago. The decision to suspend him was made based on information learned from a review of the personnel files of diocesan priests. The allegation, which Father Nichols denies, is under investigation by the Diocese. As a retired priest, he was not assigned to any parish but did help with the celebration of Masses in various parishes since retirement, including with the Maronite community within the Diocese. His suspension precludes him from all ministry until the investigation is completed and a determination on the matter is made. Last year the Fall River Diocese hired an independent consultant to complete a comprehensive evaluation of its priestly personnel files, and Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., informed parishioners that a list of credibly accused clergy would follow. The Diocese suspended some priests in response to information gathered during the file evaluation pending further investigation, as required under its policies. “The task of evaluating all of the files and the response needed on our part as a result of the findings have, regretfully, taken more time than first thought,” said Bishop da Cunha. “It is crucial that we take the time and perform the diligence necessary to compile a list that is accurate and complete, and we continue to do so.” “I understand that these recent announcements regarding the suspensions of priests are upsetting to our diocesan community of faith and often bring renewed pain to victims of sexual abuse especially victims of sexual abuse by clergy,” added Bishop da Cunha. “I continue to pray for our brothers and sisters who have suffered greatly.” As part of ongoing efforts to improve its Office of Safe Environment, the Diocese recently hired Carolyn Shipp, a licensed social worker, to focus on pastoral outreach to victims/survivors. “As a social worker, I am here to listen to anyone with concerns and to connect survivors to the resources they need,” said Shipp. Anyone with information that they wish to raise regarding the conduct of any past or present member of the Diocese, is encouraged to contact Carolyn Shipp, the Diocese’s Victim Assistance Coordinator, at 508-985-6508 or cshipp@dioc-fr.org ### Background: Father Herbert T. Nichols Ordained 1975 Parish Assignments: St. Ann Parish, Raynham; St. Joseph Parish, Taunton; St. Mary Parish, Taunton; St. Anne Parish, Fall River; St. Joan of Arc Parish, Orleans; St. Anne Parish, Fall River; St. James Parish, New Bedford; Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, New Bedford; St. Anthony of Padua Parish, New Bedford; St. Bernadette Parish, Fall River; retirement 2015. Father Nichols also served in ministry in New York as a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal community. The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D. The Bishop of Fall River Categories In the News Press Releases and Statements Messages from The Bishop Bishop's Blog Success Stories Photo Gallery Videos Previous Next Related Posts In the News 19 Jan 2020 Retired Priests Suspended from Ministry FALL RIVER — The Diocese of Fall River has announced that two retired priests have been suspended from ministry due to separate allegations of sexual abuse of a minor, said … Read More In the News 7 Jan 2021 Diocese of Fall River Releases List of 75 Clergy Accused of Sexual Abuse of Minors FALL RIVER, Mass. (Jan. 7, 2021) – Today, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., announced that the Diocese of Fall River has published a list of 75 clergy who have … Read More In the News 4 Nov 2021 Father John Andrews, Retired Priest of Diocese, Dies Reverend John F. Andrews, 85, a retired priest of the Fall River Diocese, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2021, at Marian Manor. John was born in North Dighton, the … Read More