"What contempt for us" - victims of sexual abuse protest the appointment of a priest convicted of rape

In Loctudy, victims of sexual abuse protest the appointment of a priest convicted of rape

The Association for the Remembrance and Prevention of Sexual Abuse in the Catholic Church of the West (AMPASEO) protests the decision to appoint a priest convicted of rape to the position of chancellor by the Archbishop of Toulouse, Monsignor Guy de Kerimel.

In the Pays Bigouden region, victims of sexual abuse protest the appointment of a priest convicted of rape.

In a press release, the Association for the Remembrance and Prevention of Sexual Abuse in the Catholic Church of the West (AMPASEO) condemns the appointment, in early June 2025, of Father Dominique Spina to the position of chancellor by the Archbishop of Toulouse, Monsignor Guy de Kerimel. Dominique Spina was sentenced in 2006 to five years in prison, one of which was suspended, for the rape of a 16-year-old high school student in 1993. The association states that it is "horrified by Father Spina's promotion to a position of responsibility," "as are all victims of sexual crimes committed in the Church."

"What contempt for us"

"What contempt for us, victims of a common predator against more than 100 children, including those in Issé (44) and Loctudy (29), as well as a large number of victims in Chavagnes-en-Paillers (85), in the 1960s," continue the members, denouncing the "scandalous" decision. They recall meeting with Pope Francis in November 2023 to discuss the matter. "He was perfectly aware of the corruption that reigned in the Church," they emphasize.

The AMPASEO association thus urges "Bishop de Kerimel to reverse his decision regarding Guy Spina and to exclude him completely and permanently from any position within the Church."

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