A priest serving the Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community has been placed on administrative leave following an allegation of sexual misconduct involving an adult.

According to a June 29 letter from Bishop Patrick M. Neary to church parishioners, Father Aaron Kuhn was placed on leave and will undergo a professional evaluation for personal and spiritual renewal. Neary asked church parishioners to keep Father Kuhn “and everyone affected by this situation in your prayers” and reiterated the allegation involved an adult and not a minor. 

Neary wrote that he has been in contact with Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community parochial vicar Father Rick Aubol and business administrator, Deacon Randy Alstadt to offer his support and any assistance that may be needed. 

“I am truly grateful to them for their leadership,” Neary wrote. “I promise to provide future updates regarding Fr. Aaron’s status as appropriate.”

Neary also wrote the Diocesan Response Team would be visiting churches in the Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community to address questions and concerns in the future.

Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community is part of the Diocese of St. Cloud and includes catholic churches in Wadena, Staples, Verndale, Bertha, Bluegrass, Bluffton, Menahga and Motley.