When a trusted parish leader leaves suddenly, it can be confusing and upsetting. This is what happened in Starkville, Mississippi. Many people asked why Fr Tomy Puliyan was removed as pastor from church.
- Key Takeaways
- What Happened? A Simple Overview
- The Diocese’s Response and Public Statement
- Understanding “Boundary Violations”
- How Did St. Joseph’s Parish React?
- How Does the Church Investigate Complaints?
- Civil Law vs. Church Law: What’s the Difference?
- Why Celibacy and Boundaries Matter
- Helping the Parish Move Forward
- The Church’s New Approach to Accountability
- What Happens to a Priest After Removal?
- Restoring Trust in the Church
- Conclusion
In this article, we will explain what happened, why it matters, and how it affects the church and community. We wrote this to help everyone understand, using simple and clear language.
Key Takeaways
- Event: Fr. Tomy Puliyan was removed from St. Joseph Catholic Church in Starkville, MS.
- Reason: The Diocese said this was due to “boundary violations” with an adult woman.
- Outcome: He cannot serve as a priest in the diocese anymore.
- Process: This followed a careful investigation by church leaders.
What Happened? A Simple Overview
Fr. Tomy Puliyan had been working at St. Joseph Catholic Church for several years. He connected with many people, including college students from Mississippi State University.
In late 2023, the Diocese of Jackson received a complaint about his behavior. The complaint was about improper contact with an adult woman. There were no minors involved.
Church leaders acted quickly and carefully. Fr. Tomy was put on leave during an investigation. After a full review, the diocese decided that he had crossed important boundaries. As a result, Fr. Tomy Puliyan was removed as pastor from church.
The Diocese’s Response and Public Statement
Bishop Joseph Kopacz, head of the Jackson Diocese, led the process. The church told members that Fr. Tomy’s removal was because he violated important rules.
These rules are there to protect trust between priests and parishioners. The statement made it clear that, although there was no crime, church laws had been broken.
Because of this, Fr. Tomy will not be allowed to serve as a priest in the diocese. He cannot perform sacraments or appear in public as a priest.
Understanding “Boundary Violations”
Many people ask, “What is a boundary violation?” In the Catholic Church, priests make special promises. For example, they promise not to have romantic relationships.
Crossing a boundary includes having a personal or romantic relationship with someone in the parish, even if both are adults. These rules exist because priests hold a unique and trusted role.
When priests break these promises, it hurts the trust of the church community. That’s why the church takes boundary violations so seriously. Even if it is not illegal, it can damage faith and trust.
How Did St. Joseph’s Parish React?
St. Joseph’s includes families, college students, and staff from the university. When people heard that Fr Tomy Puliyan was removed as pastor from church, they felt shocked or saddened.
Some people did not want to believe the news. Others felt the church was right to act quickly. Both reactions are normal.
However, after the announcement, church leaders and volunteers stepped up. Interim priests helped with services. Meetings were held, so people could ask questions and support each other. The parish held together by relying on faith and community.
How Does the Church Investigate Complaints?
Over the last twenty years, the Catholic Church has improved how it handles complaints. Both complaints about minors and about adults are taken seriously.
Here’s how it usually works:
- A complaint goes to the Diocese’s Victim Assistance Coordinator.
- If the claim seems credible, a review board investigates. This board includes church members and legal or mental health experts.
- During the investigation, the priest is put on leave.
- The review board talks to the people involved and collects information.
- After looking at the facts, they make a decision.
This process helps protect everyone. In addition, it ensures the church community is kept safe.
You can read more about church procedures at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Civil Law vs. Church Law: What’s the Difference?
Sometimes, people wonder why a priest is removed from church but not arrested. Here’s a simple comparison:
Aspect | Civil/Criminal Law | Church Law (Canon Law) |
|---|---|---|
Authority | Courts, Police | Bishop, Church Leaders |
Focus | Breaking state or federal law | Breaking church rules |
Consequences | Fines, Jail | Removal, Laicization |
Proof Needed | “Beyond a reasonable doubt” | “Moral certainty” |
Fr. Tomy’s Case | No state charges | Church rules were broken |
In Fr. Tomy’s case, he broke church rules about relationships. However, no state or federal law was broken.
Why Celibacy and Boundaries Matter
Catholic priests make a promise called celibacy. This means they promise not to marry or have romantic relationships. This promise helps them serve everyone equally.
For example, breaking this promise impacts the whole church. It can damage trust and set a poor example. That is why church leaders act quickly and firmly in these cases.
Helping the Parish Move Forward
A pastor’s removal is a big change. However, the diocese does not leave a parish alone. Instead, they offer help and support.
- Interim or visiting priests take over Mass and sacraments.
- Church leaders meet with staff and parishioners to answer questions.
- Resources are shared to help people adjust.
If you want to know more about supporting parishes, check out NCR Magazine.
The Church’s New Approach to Accountability
In the past, church problems were often not shared openly. Now, things are different. There is more openness and stronger rules.
For example:
- Every credible complaint gets investigated.
- Even “boundary issues” can lead to removal.
- Church members expect truth and quick action.
This approach helps keep the trust of the church community strong, even during hard times.
What Happens to a Priest After Removal?
People often want to know what’s next for priests who are removed. For Fr. Tomy Puliyan, his future depends on many factors.
He was serving in the U.S. but is from India. Most likely, he will need to return to India after removal.
His home church or order will decide the next steps. Sometimes, a priest will enter a time of reflection or counseling. In some cases, he may leave the priesthood, a process called “laicization.”
Restoring Trust in the Church
A scandal is hard for any church. However, there are ways to rebuild trust.
- Church leaders share honest, clear updates.
- New pastors listen and offer support.
- Parishioners work together through worship, service, and teamwork.
To learn more about how churches stay organized and follow rules, see the IRS guide to religious organizations.
Conclusion
The removal of Fr Tomy Puliyan as pastor from church was a tough moment for Starkville. However, it showed that the Catholic Church is committed to clear rules and accountability.
As St. Joseph Catholic Church moves forward, the focus will be on faith and rebuilding strong community ties. The hope is that everyone will heal and grow together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Fr. Tomy Puliyan removed?
A: He broke church rules about relationships, according to the investigation.
Q: Did he break any laws?
A: No. There were no criminal charges, only church policy violations.
Q: What’s a “boundary violation”?
A: It means a priest acted in a way the church does not allow—usually a romantic relationship.
Q: Is St. Joseph Church staying open?
A: Yes. The church is open with interim leadership.
Q: Where is Fr. Tomy Puliyan now?
A: He is no longer serving in Mississippi and likely returned to his home church or order.
