UNIONTOWN, Pa. — Parishioners who have known the Rev. James Clark for years were shocked to hear of an allegation against him, first reported by Channel 11 on Saturday and discussed in churches a day later.
The priest has worked for more than half a dozen churches in the Greensburg and Fayette County areas.
RELATED STORY: Greensburg diocese removes priest from assignments after allegation surfaces
“I just can't believe it,” said parishioner Glenda Grant.
The Diocese of Greensburg told Channel 1 the allegation stems from an incident five decades ago prior to his entrance into the seminary and ordination as a priest, while he was working as a janitor at the former St. James School in Apollo.
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After receiving the allegation last week, Clark was removed from his assignments at St. Mary, St. John the Evangelist, St. Therese, Little Flower of Jesus and St. Joseph Parishes, all in Uniontown, and as chaplain of Uniontown Hospital.
“I was in Uniontown hospital and I had congestive heart failure and needed last rites he came in and was wonderful to me,” said Joan Bear.
Parishioners Channel 11 spoke with Monday outside several of Clark's churches said they stand by him and do not believe the allegation.
“If there’s proof, show it; then that's a different story,” said Grant. “Like I said, I just love him. I just love him.”