HOUSTON — The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has removed a local priest while it investigates an allegation that he sexually abused minors, possibly resulting in the birth of children.
An archdiocesan spokesperson confirmed Father Jesus Suarez was removed as pastor of St. Philip of Jesus parish in northeast Houston during the investigation. The alleged abuse occurred in Colombia, before Suarez came to the United States in 1994.
According to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston directories, Suarez was ordained in 1986 at the parish Socorro y San Gil in Columbia. His Houston-area assignments include St. Pius V in Pasadena from 2002 to 2005, Sacred Heart in Conroe in 2006, St. Vincent de Paul in 2007. Suarez began serving St. Philip of Jesus in 2008.
An archdiocesan spokesperson said a letter regarding his removal was read to parishioners at all churches where Father Suarez had previously served, and the Houston Police Department has been notified of the allegation.
The spokesperson added the Archdiocese was just recently made aware of the allegation and it has received no other claims of sexual abuse of minors against him.
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