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Diocese Apologizes for Priest's Offensive Autism Comments

3/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Diocese of Kerry apologized for a visiting Franciscan Friars of Renewal priest's Mass remark that autism is caused by "evil demons."
The incident occurred on February 28 at a Mass in Kiskeam, Cork.
A second Franciscan Friars of Renewal friar apologized during a subsequent Mass.
The Diocese said the remark was poorly expressed, inappropriate, and there was no intention to offend autistic individuals or their families.

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Story summary

The Diocese of Kerry apologized for a visiting Franciscan Friars of Renewal priest's Mass remark that autism is caused by "evil demons."
The incident occurred on February 28 at a Mass in Kiskeam, Cork.
A second Franciscan Friars of Renewal friar apologized during a subsequent Mass.
The Diocese said the remark was poorly expressed, inappropriate, and there was no intention to offend autistic individuals or their families.