The Abbot of Ampleforth, Fr Cuthbert Madden, has stepped down from his role leading the monastic community in Yorkshire while the police investigate historic abuse allegations against him.
Ampleforth has been rocked by a series of allegations linking priests to the abuse of boys. Since 1996 three monks and a lay teacher have been convicted of sex offences against more than 30 pupils dating back to the mid-1960s and up to the mid-1990s.
The Times newspaper last week reported that Ampleforth covered up a potential scandal in the 1980s after 11 boys complained of being touched inappropriately by a teacher, Dr Sheppard, although the North Yorkshire Police have said the latest investigation is unrelated.
In a statement on Ampleforth’s website, the college says Fr Cuthbert has stepped aside from his responsibilities “temporarily”, adding: “Fr Abbot denies any wrongdoing and will be cooperating fully whilst the allegations are investigated by the appropriate authorities.”
Fr Terence Richardson, the Prior of Ampleforth Abbey, is acting in Fr Cuthbert’s role while he is absent. The abbot’s duties include responsibility for the St Laurence Education Trust, which runs the school.
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