From Archbishop John Nienstedt

Michael Kolar is included in list of names posted on our website of men who previously had clergy assignments in the archdiocese and who face substantiated claims against them of sexually abusing a minor in our archdiocese. Kolar’s name was released to the media and posted on our website in February 2014 as a result of a comprehensive file review by an outside national firm.

The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis permanently removed Kolar from ministry in 1991, and the Holy See removed him from the clerical state in 1993.

We offer our assurances that today we handle things differently regarding priests who have been accused of sexual abuse of a minor. We ask for forgiveness from all those harmed by clergy sexual abuse and we pray for hope and healing for all victims of sexual abuse and their families.