Texas priest involved in nun's vow of chastity dispute retires for medical reasons

A Catholic priest, Rev. Philip G. Johnson, has retired due to medical reasons amid a controversy involving an Arlington nun. His retirement, effective July 31, was announced by the Raleigh diocese, where he remains in good standing. The feud began in April 2023 when the bishop accused the nun, Rev. Mother Teresa Agnes Gerlach, of violating her vow of chastity. This led to a civil lawsuit against the bishop, resulting in public hearings and investigations. Recently, the Arlington nuns were dismissed from religious life by their new leader, Mother Marie of the Incarnation. The nuns have since reopened their monastery and transferred ownership to a new foundation, claiming the bishop's actions were an attempt to take their land.