Sacked chaplain of St. Monica College of Education, Rev. Father Balthazar Obeng Larbi, the Anglican priest who was captured on camera kissing three female teacher trainees has explained his actions and apologized duly for his conduct; adding that he admits his conduct was unacceptable.
In his press statement issued on Thursday, August 19, 2021, he explained that the kiss was only “an attempt to add a human touch” during the church service in honour of the students for their outstanding performance.
His statement reads; “This unfortunate incident happened during a Church Service in appreciation of the Level 300 students, who will be going for their Macro Teaching (Off-Campus Teaching Practice) when college resumes the next academic year, by the College’s Chaplaincy Board”.
“Accordingly, I am sincerely sorry for my actions seen in the video. I seemed to have taken a number of things for granted. I did not think my behaviour through, and I admit that the act and its setting are wrong even in the absence of Covid-19”.
“I sincerely apologise to my Archbishop, the entirety of the Anglican Communion, the College, the affected students and their families, and the generality of the public”.
“I pray for forgiveness from all and sundry and plead that you hold me in your prayers during these trying times. May God bless us all.”
Following the video going viral, Father Balthazar Obeng Larbi was relieved of his duties by the Anglican Church of Ghana which runs the St. Monica’s College of Education. The church has also began an investigation into the matter.
See his full statement below…
Ewurama Acheampoma