<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621353048269.png" alt="Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey " />
 <figcaption>Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey </figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON, Kansas — The chaplain of Benedictine College, the private liberal arts college in Atchison, who admitted an inappropriate relationship with a student is no longer working for the school.In April, Fr. Simon Baker, OSB, the chaplain of Benedictine College, self-disclosed to St. Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the College, according to a media statement from the school.Following his disclosure, the Abbey convened its internal review board to investigate. The review board determined that Fr. Simon displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism toward the woman. The board recommended that certain boundaries be placed on Fr. Simon, and that counseling and support be offered to the female involved.This week, immediately after the Abbey learned that Fr. Simon was not complying with these boundaries, he was removed from ministry. Since his removal, the College has received additional reports that Fr. Simon crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women. At this point these reports do not involve a minor or any alleged criminal behavior. Benedictine College and St. Benedict’s Abbey are commencing a third-party investigation of these reports. Fr. Simon is prohibited from being present on campus pending the conclusion of the investigation.The school said they&nbsp; are reaching out to all those who may be affected by these reports and those with information about Fr. Simon pertinent to this investigation, or those affected by this and would like to seek support, should contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.The school also apologized to all those affected by Fr. Simon’s inappropriate behavior.

Kan. college investigates priest for inappropriate conduct