Priest jailed for sex assaults

One of Lancashire's most senior Catholic priests is facing jail for sexually assaulting a man in Preston. Canon Stephen Shield committed the offences more than two decades ago against a man who hoped to join the priesthood. He'll be sentenced later

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Reaction from the Catholic Diocese of Lancaster

‘It is with profound sadness and deepest regret that the priests and people of the Diocese

of Lancaster acknowledge the sentencing, today, of Canon Stephen Shield – a priest of

this Diocese.’

The Bishop of Lancaster, Rt Rev Michael G Campbell OSA added:

“Please God, with the passing of time - together with a purified and strengthened resolve

by all - healing and reconciliation will be restored to those affected by this tragic episode

in our local Church of Lancaster.”

He continued:

“Those directly involved in this case should know of my heartfelt prayer for each of them

and those affected by this heart-breaking affair.”

Lancashire priest jailed for sex assaults

Canon Stephen Shield jailed for 12 months for sex assaults

One of Lancashire' s most senior Catholic priests has been jailed after being convicted of sexually assaulting a man in Preston.

Canon Stephen Shield, the Dean at Lancaster Cathedral, committed the offences more than two decades ago. against a man who later became a priest.

The Bishop of Lancaster says he is praying for those affected by the case.

Canon Shield has been sentenced to 12 months in prison at Preston Crown Court

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Senior Lancashire priest facing jail

Canon Stephen Shield

One of Lancashire' s most senior Catholic priests is facing jail after being convicted of sexually assaulting a man in Preston.

Canon Stephen Shield - the Dean at Lancaster Cathedral - committed the offences more than two decades ago. against a man who hoped to join the priesthood. He'll be sentenced at Preston Crown Court later.

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