Story Created:
Jun 1, 2008 at 12:12 AM MDT
Story Updated:
Nov 20, 2008 at 9:59 PM MDT
MOUNTAIN HOME - The Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise said Father Raul Covarrubias returned to Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish Saturday after an eight-month absence.
Covarrubias was put on leave last September after allegations the priest sexually abused a minor. An investigation found Covarrubias had broken no laws. The priest told parishioners he was involved in sexual misconduct with an adult.
At a parish meeting on Saturday, Bishop Michael Driscoll acknowledged the hurt caused by Covarrubias.
"... his misconduct has had a major impact on the ministry," Driscoll said.
Driscoll said the priest can continue to serve after reviewing a report from the counseling staff of a residential treatment facility Covarrubias attended.
The bishop asked for continued prayers for the person hurt by this misconduct.
Covarrubias told parishoners he was involved in sexual misconduct with an adult.