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Guam - Monsignor James Benavente has finally issued a statement about his unexpected removal from his positions at the Archdiocese of Agana. The Monsignor recently celebrated his 20-year anniversary only to be removed a week later from his position as Rector of the Cathedral Basilica and Director of Catholic Cemeteries for the Archdiocese of Agana.


Archbishop Anthony Apuron through press releases said he was removed for financial mismanagement based on an audit that was conducted into the church’s finances.


Monsignor James today issued the following statement in response to the public allegations: "I want to thank the people of God in the Archdiocese of Agana for their support and prayers during this time." He added. "Despite my repeated pleas to be presented with the written allegations of financial mismanagement and the opportunity to respond, the decision was made to go to the media and public first. I am confident that this entire situation could have been resolved amicably in order to spare our community the hurt and division that exists today; however, the lesser road was chosen. “I ask for your continued prayers for our Church as I work to resolve these matters through deep prayer and dialogue in order that truth and justice prevail for the good of all.”

Earlier in the week, local Catholics created a Facebook fan page to rally in support of the ousted clergyman.