Worcester Priest accused of rape is freed

A stay away order is the condition of release for a Worcester priest accused of raping and beating a woman.

Charles Abdelahad former pastor of Saint George Orthodox Cathedral in Worcester stood before a judge Friday morning facing charges of rape and multiple counts of assault and battery.

According to court records Abdelahad allegedly attacked a 43-year-old female several times between 2007 to 2009. Documents claim the priest bit, kicked punched and struck the alleged victim with a religious icon. Abdelahad’s lawyer entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf.

The alleged victim and family members were present in the court room but did not want to speak with members of the media. A group of parishioners gathered in support of their priest. Many say they were shocked to hear about the allegations.

Abdelahad been a priest at Saint George Orthodox Cathedral for more than 20 years. He left the parish in November. His lawyer says his decision leave followed these allegations of abuse.