AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 8 (UPI) -- A Roman Catholic priest in Texas has resigned from the ministry after acknowledging that he had sex with an underage girl in the 1970s.
A San Antonio woman recently reported the relationship with the Rev. Lonnie Reyes when she was under 18 years of age, the Austin American-Statesman reported. The diocese is investigating the possibility of two other victims.
Austin Bishop Gregory Aymond announced Reyes' resignation to parishioners of St. Julia's Church Tuesday night in Austin.
"In his weakness, Father Reyes was unfaithful to his commitment to chastity," Aymond said. "He is greatly embarrassed and repentant of his actions and the pain it will cause you."
Reyes, the pastor at St. Julia's since 1986, was active in the community. He was an outspoken advocate for Mexican Americans, marching with farm workers in South Texas and taking part in Austin labor strikes.
Former Austin Mayor Gus Garcia, a longtime friend, said the resignation was a heartbreaking end to a career of service to the people and the church.
