Official statements or press releases from the Diocese of Orlando

Florida Priest Faces Battery Charges for Biting Woman During Communion Dispute

May 24, 2024, 10:17 AM

A Florida priest has been accused of biting a woman's forearm during a dispute over Holy Communion at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in St. Cloud. The incident occurred during Sunday Mass when the woman attempted to receive the Eucharist in a manner deemed improper by the priest. The priest, who has been charged with one count of battery, claimed he was trying to prevent an act of desecration. The woman reportedly referred to the Eucharist as a 'cookie' and attended two separate Masses to obtain it. The Diocese of Orlando defended the priest's actions, stating he was protecting the sanctity of the sacrament. A police report noted that the priest believed biting her arm was the only way to extract her from the situation. The priest may face further battery charges.