Padre Alberto Cutie Protects Woman in Celibacy Scandal Photos

Well known Miami beach Padre Alberto Cutie told the El Nuevo Herald today that he would not reveal the name of the woman shown with him in photos on a beach. The popular priest was granted “a leave of absence for personal reflection” after the publication of the photos in a Spanish language magazine.

In one of several photos, the 40 year old priest is shown lying on his back in shorts with an unidentified brown haired woman. The woman was in a bathing suit and had her legs wrapped around Cutie. Another photo shows them kissing at a terrace bar.

The Archdiocese of Miami removed Padre Cutie from the St. Francis de Sales Catholic church in Miami Beach after the photos were published.

Cutie released a short note Tuesday thanking those who support him and asking for the “forgiveness of those who may be hurt or saddened by my actions”.

Archbishop John Favalora also issued a statement Tuesday saying, “Father Cutie made a promise of celibacy and all priests are expected to fulfill that promise with the help of God. Father Cutie’s actions cannot be condoned despite the good works he has done as a priest”.

Archdiocese officials said Cutie’s case of alleged violation of his vow of celibacy is a private matter between him and Archbishop John Favalora. He will have more consultations with the archbishop before a decision is made about his future as a priest with the archdiocese.

In the meantime, the woman in the photos with Padre Alberto Cutie remains unknown.