A lawsuit has been filed against St. Rose of Lima Parish and the Diocese of Nashville regarding a former director of religious education who left parish employment in 2016.
“It is not appropriate for us to respond to questions about this lawsuit until our attorneys have an opportunity to review the complaint. As the legal process unfolds, we anticipate more information will be forthcoming,” the diocese said in a statement on Sept. 29.
“We encourage everyone who suspects that abuse is taking place to report it to civil authorities, and we pray for everyone involved in this matter.”
Michael Lewis, the former director of religious education who left employment at St. Rose in 2016, was arrested in June 2020 and is facing criminal charges related to the allegations. Lewis’ case, which is separate from the lawsuit, is still pending.
