An Oct. 15 memorial Evensong service at Christ Church in Greenwich, Conn., was to have been one of the first public appearances since long-time organist and music director Robert F. Tate returned from sabbatical. Instead worshipers were left puzzling over an announcement during the homily by the assistant to the rector, the Rev. Mark L. Fitzhugh, noting it was “unfortunate” that Mr. Tate was not able to be present.

On Oct. 24, NBC News reported that Federal prosecutors are investigating Mr. Tate for allegedly possessing child pornography. Earlier this month the FBI searched a building located on the Christ Church campus and a grand jury is convening, according to the NBC News report. The following day the Diocese of Connecticut released a statement acknowledging the existence of misconduct allegations against Mr. Tate, reporting that appropriate procedures and pastoral concerns are being addressed and extending pastoral support to the members and clergy of Christ Church “as they move through this difficult time.”

For years Christ Church, one of the largest parishes in terms of average Sunday attendance in the diocese, has sponsored an internationally recognized chorale program with five childrens' choirs. It is unclear whether the alleged pornographic images that caused the investigation were stored on a church-owned computer, according to The New York Times. The Times reported that investigators are also investigating whether Mr. Tate had inappropriate contact with any of the many children he came in contact with through the church.

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