Huntington Beach church leader resigns, admits misuse of funds
A Huntington Beach rector, who confessed that he used church funds for personal use, has resigned, church officials confirmed Wednesday.
St. Wilfrid of York Church announced the Rev. Canon Michael D. Archer’s resignation in a Sunday letter addressed to parishioners. Archer apologized for his actions and promised to repay the funds with interest once auditors determine the exact amount.
Archer was suspended from his pastoral ministry for five years and is required to seek counseling, according to the letter. The Rev. Canon Gary Hall will serve as the priest in charge beginning Nov. 18.
“I invite the prayers of the whole diocesan community for the people of St. Wilfrid’s and Michael and his family,” Rt. Rev. John Harvey Taylor said in a statement.
St. Wilfrid officials said they were working “diligently” to examine their finances and determine how to uphold financial accountability.
Archer was placed on administrative leave in August after allegations of financial misconduct were made against him and officials conducted an internal investigation.
Twitter: @vegapriscella
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