Father Richard Altine a former pastor at St. Rose Catholic Church in Hastings resigned as pastor of five southwest michigan churches amid questions about possible misuse of funds.

The Catholic Diocese of Kalamazoo launched an investigation into suspected financial irregularities at the five churches located in Dowagiac, Decatur,  Berrien Springs, Silver Creek and Buchanan.

Father Altine resigned as pastor and withdrew from public ministry on October 22nd.

In a statement from The Diocese of Kalamazoo, the Diocese said,  "they take very seriously the protection of the financial gifts entrusted to its parishes."