Statement of the Fall River Diocese Regarding
Charges Filed Against Father Mark Hession

Father Mark R. Hession is and has been suspended from active priestly ministry since 2019. A priest on leave is not permitted to exercise public ministry nor present himself as a priest in public settings.

Subsequently, the Diocese of Fall River learned of the investigation by the Barnstable County District Attorney’s Office.  The Diocese has been cooperating with this investigation from the outset, and will continue to do so.

The Diocese of Fall River is committed to ensuring the safety of all children and adults.

The Diocese stands firm in its commitment to report abuse to law enforcement and cooperate with investigations. If you have been abused by someone representing the Church (priest, deacon, religious, employee or volunteer), we are sorry. We are here to listen and support you. You can report an incident of abuse by contacting local law enforcement directly and by contacting Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Carolyn Shipp at 508-985-6508 (confidential voice mail) or cshipp@dioc-fr.org.  She can assist you in making a report and support you through the process.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications