The Diocese of Palm Beach announced that Rev. Alex J. Vargas, pastor of St. Thomas More Parish in Boynton Beach, has been placed on administrative leave following serious allegations. A formal investigation is now underway.

To ensure the safety of all concerned and the integrity of the investigative process, Father Vargas has been placed on administrative leave, and his ministerial faculties have been removed, effective immediately, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Father Vargas is prohibited from exercising any ministry and from having contact with any Diocese of Palm Beach parishioners, employees, volunteers, ministries, and affiliated organizations, including those at St. Thomas More, except as authorized by the Diocese.

Very Rev. Antony Pulikal has been appointed Parish Administrator of St. Thomas More Parish, with full pastoral, administrative, and financial authority. The Diocese has reported the matter to the appropriate civil authorities and remains fully committed to maintaining safe environments in all its parishes, schools, and ministries.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.