07/23/2026
Official Statement from the Diocese of Salina Regarding Father Ryan McCandless:
"Fr. Ryan McCandless has been charged with allegations of sexual abuse of a minor. We are extremely sorry for any pain and suffering that has taken place for any victim of sexual abuse. In accordance with diocesan policy and the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, these allegations were reported to both civil and ecclesiastical authorities. The Diocese of Salina is fully cooperating with the investigation being conducted by the Republic County Sheriff's Department and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.
Fr. McCandless was immediately removed from all public priestly ministry upon notice of the allegation. He was not permitted to celebrate Mass, perform sacraments, or engage in any pastoral duties while the matter was under investigation. He will remain removed from ministry unless and until he is fully cleared of the allegations by all the appropriate civil, legal, and ecclesiastical authorities. Out of respect for the legal process and the individuals involved, we are unable to provide further details at this time.
At the time of his removal, Fr. McCandless was serving as pastor of:
· St. Edward Parish (Belleville)
· St. George Parish (Munden)
· St. Isidore Parish (Cuba)
He has previously served in the following assignments:
· Immaculate Heart of Mary, Hays
· St. Joseph Parish, Hays
· Seven Dolors Parish, Manhattan
· St. Isidore Catholic Student Center, Manhattan
· St. Theresa Parish, Mankato
· Sacred Heart Parish, Esbon
· Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Concordia
· Manhattan Catholic Schools, Manhattan
· Thomas More Prep-Marian, Hays
· Comeau Catholic Campus Center, Hays
The Diocese remains steadfast in its commitment to the protection of children, the safety of our communities, and the pastoral care of survivors. We are devastated for all involved and ask for your prayers during this difficult time.
If you have any information that may be helpful to law enforcement, please contact the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-572-7463.
If you observe suspected child abuse of a minor by clergy or other church or school personnel and the child is in immediate danger, call 911.
To make a confidential report to the Diocese, contact our Victim Assistance Coordinator at 866-752-8855 or [email protected]. You will hear a brief recorded message before leaving a voicemail. The Victim Assistance Coordinator will return your call as soon as possible.
We ask for your continued prayers for all those impacted."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2026
Bill Meagher
Director of Communications
Catholic Diocese of Salina
785-827-8746
[email protected]
www.salinadiocese.org
