Former prior may stand trial for looting monastery

Photo: east news

Father Maksymilian has been accused of stealing some 110,000 zloty (28,000 euro) as well as a hoard of antique treasures.

The accused man formerly presided over the Camaldolese monastery at the suburban village Bielany, a few kilometres west of Krakow. The baroque edifice crowns the so-called “Silver Mountain” above the village.

Charges were originally brought against the prior in 2008, following a three-year investigation. However, the case was dropped owing to the apparent ill health of the defendant.

After it emerged that the former prior had been working in Wadowice, southern Poland, and had yet to complain of any ill health to his new colleagues, prosecutors decided to reignite the court proceedings.

Amongst the items seized by the police is a highly valuable statue of a Sorrowing Christ which the defendant had deposited at a female friend’s house whilst he was still serving as prior.

Father Maksymilian (Witold K. in ‘civilian’ life), could serve ten years in prison if found guilty of the charges.

After his dismissal by the Holy See, the defendant managed to find work in Wadowice, winning a competition to work in the promotional section of the regional administration office. (nh/jb)

Source: IAR