September 18, 2026

Diocese announces suspension of two Stigmatine priests at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish pending investigation into improper behavior

REGIONAL
Staff report

SPRINGFIELD- The Diocese of Springfield is announcing the suspension of Stigmatine Father Paolo Bagattini, who was assigned to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield after receiving a report of improper behavior with a minor beginning in late 2022 and occurring during his time at Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield.

To facilitate a full investigation, and pursuant to its policies and practices designed to safeguard minors, upon receipt of the report in July, the diocese immediately shared this information with civil authorities, including the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office. On July 22, 2026, Bishop William D. Byrne immediately suspended Father Bagattini’s faculties within the Diocese of Springfield. He remains suspended at this time.

On September 17, 2026, the diocese received a second report from an adult regarding an improper relationship with Stigmatine Father Robert White.  

Out of an abundance of caution, the diocese immediately forwarded this new information to civil authorities for review. Additionally, Bishop Byrne immediately removed Father White’s faculties within the Diocese of Springfield, including his role as pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Springfield, pending a complete review of all of the facts and circumstances surrounding this recent allegation.

The diocese is grateful to Stigmatine Father Kleber L. Cardoso, who will oversee interim pastoral duties at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish during this period.

It should be noted that the diocese always defers to civil authorities – removing those with allegations from active ministry but not taking any other action including naming these individuals or conducting our own internal procedures until said time when civil authorities have completed their work. In this particular matter, because of the additional allegation, now involving the long-time pastor, it was in the best interest of this parish and with the consent from civil authorities, we are releasing this statement. At this time, Bishop Byrne asks for prayers and support for all those affected by these announcements today.

The Diocese of Springfield encourages anyone with concerns regarding the conduct of any priest, staff member, or volunteer affiliated with the Diocese of Springfield to contact law enforcement and Michael Collins, Diocesan Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance at (413) 452-0624 or by email at m.collins@diospringfield.org.