Kozhikode: Mananthavady Bishop Jose Porunnedom tendered an apology to Neendunokki parish and family of the minor who was raped by former parish vicar Robin Vadakkumchery at Kottiyoor in Kannur.
In his two-page letter, the Bishop made it clear that the atrocity committed by the priest who was supposed to be a guardian of values cannot be tolerated.
“The loss of pride and divinity to our parish is beyond words. I am completely with the believers in this intense hour of grief. How can I pacify the girl and her relatives? All your tears are seen by Almighty. Let me share my tears with you. I have only to say a word, apologies,” says the letter.
The letter says that Fr Manakunnel has been appointed as the temporary vicar of Needunokki as a replacement for Fr Vadakkumchery.
The 16-year-old Plus-One student had delivered a child on February 7 and the issue came to light after 20 days when childline workers got a tip off. The girl stood on her ground that the priest fathered her baby and Fr Robin Vadakkumchery was arrested on February 27 in Chalakudy.
