Father Fidel Rodriguez, a church priest in St. Cloud, Florida, faces allegations of biting a woman during Communion at a Mass held at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. According to CNN, Rodriguez, the priest bites woman in an attempt to ‘defend the Communion bread,’ as stated in the charging affidavit.
The incident occurred on May 19, when Rodriguez reportedly refused to give the woman Communion, citing incomplete steps necessary for participation. The Diocese of Orlando’s statement indicates that Rodriguez had initially offered the woman a blessing during the 10 a.m. Mass. However, the woman returned for the noon Mass, claiming to have fulfilled the requirements and therefore entitled to receive Communion.
During the noon Mass, Rodriguez allegedly questioned the woman about her participation in the Sacrament of Penance (Confession), to which she responded that it was not his concern. Subsequently, a confrontation ensued, during which Rodriguez claims the woman pushed him and refused to release the communion tray, leading him to bite her arm.
The Diocese stressed the importance of understanding and reverence in the Catholic tradition regarding the Eucharist, emphasizing that Communion cannot be arbitrarily demanded and is not to be treated lightly. The woman declined medical attention, and police documented the bite mark.
The St. Cloud Police have referred the case to the State Attorney’s Office for review. The Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office confirmed that the case is currently under review to determine the appropriate course of action.”
