Louisiana church solicits prayers for pastor convicted of sexual assault – but not for his victims
A Louisiana church has faced criticism for soliciting prayers for a pastor convicted of sexual assault while neglecting to mention his victims. Anthony Odiong was sentenced to life in prison for his crimes against congregants in Texas. Victims and their advocates have expressed disappointment over the church's focus on the convicted pastor rather than the survivors.
- ▪Anthony Odiong was convicted of sexual assault and sentenced to life in prison in Texas.
- ▪The church's bulletin solicited prayers for Odiong but did not mention his victims.
- ▪Victims and advocates have criticized the church for prioritizing the convicted pastor's reputation over the needs of survivors.
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Anthony Odiong after his arrest in Florida on 16 July 2024. Photograph: Waco PoliceView image in fullscreenAnthony Odiong after his arrest in Florida on 16 July 2024. Photograph: Waco PoliceLouisianaLouisiana church solicits prayers for pastor convicted of sexual assault – but not for his victimsAnthony Odiong was sentenced to life in prison for sex crimes against his congregants in TexasRamon Antonio VargasWed 3 Jun 2026 06.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleA Louisiana church where a Roman Catholic priest served as pastor before being recently convicted in Texas of criminal clergy sexual assault and sentenced to life in prison has been criticized by his victims and their supporters for soliciting prayers on his behalf in a parochial bulletin published after his guilty verdict –…
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