OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln has released the findings of an independent investigation into a former priest who was accused of instances of abuse.
The abuse allegations centered around Msgr. Kalin, a priest who ran the Newman Center from 1970-1998, which is the place where UNL students go to practice their faith in college.
The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln said, "The investigator’s report indicates that Msgr. Kalin’s leadership style was demanding and authoritarian, and his use of alcohol, cigarettes and frequent visits to casinos was confirmed. The investigation also revealed that Msgr. Kalin did, on occasion, make sexual advances against some college students and seminarians. Kalin died in 2008."
Personnel files and more than 35 in-person interviews were conducted during the investigation.
Archbishop George Lucas of Omaha, who shared the findings in a letter, said the church is committed to resolving the cases, thanked those who aided the investigation and said the church will continue to create an environment that is vigilant against abuse.
“We are pleased the investigation has been completed. We share these results today with our brothers and sisters in Christ to continue to build a culture of vigilance within the diocese,” said Archbishop Lucas. “We are also incredibly grateful to all those who came forward to share their experiences as part of the investigation.”
The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln says anyone, "Affected by their experience with Msgr. Kalin and needing assistance should contact the Diocese of Lincoln to receive appropriate assistance and counseling to promote healing in their lives." It asks anyone wanting to report abuse to contact law enforcement or the Nebraska Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 652-1999.
