(File Photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Mat Barrett

Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon

Former Associate Pastor in Humboldt removed from ministry

Mar 26, 2020 | 4:54 PM

A former priest that had practiced in Humboldt has been removed from ministry by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

Father Michael Yaremko has been without ministry assignment for about two years according to a release sent by the diocese. He was the Associate Pastor in Humboldt at St. Augustine Parish. An investigation revealed that Yaremko had engaged in serious misconduct “under the diocese’s policies.”

“It is our goal to hold the bar very high in assuring that all our churches are safe and respectful communities,” said Bishop Mark Hagemoen. “When concerns are brought to light, we will continue to act decisively and compassionately and find a way forward inspired by the mind and heart of Christ Jesus.”

The diocese said that the incident did not involve children or minors. Bishop Hagemoen also said in the release that “The future of Fr. Yaremko’s status has not yet been determined.”

There are no criminal charges pending as a result of the incident either.

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As part of the same release, the diocese also removed Father Ephraim Mensah from ministry due to a separate “serious misconduct” incident. This incident did not involve children or minors and charges are nonpending according to the diocese.

Mensah was serving as pastor of the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon when he resigned.

“After our internal investigation, it was determined that Fr. Mensah’s actions amounted to serious misconduct, and were a breach of his vows to God and the Church, and the position of trust he held towards parishioners,” Bishop Hagemoen said. “His serious misconduct warranted his removal from any priestly ministries.”

The release stated there were plans for the bishop to address parishioners at St. Augustine Parish in Humboldt on March 22, but that was postponed, as have all church gatherings, due to COVID-19. The bishop was however able to address parishioners in Saskatoon on March 15.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6