A Catholic priest has resigned after the Vatican ruled he bungled thousands of baptisms over 25 years as he used the wrong words.
Between 1995 and 2021, Father Andres Arango said “we baptise you” when he should have been saying “I baptise you”.
As a result of using the wrong formula, thousands of people will have to be contacted to have the rite performed properly as theirs are now invalid.
The Vatican issued a doctoral note in 2020 clarifying the correct words to use when performing a baptism.
In his resignation announcement Father Arango, who left the St Gregory Catholic Church in Phoenix, Arizona, US, said he will be offering spiritual guidance to those affected.
He said: “It saddens me to learn that I have performed invalid baptisms throughout my ministry as a priest by regularly using an incorrect formula.
“I deeply regret my error and how this has affected numerous people in your parish and elsewhere.
“With the help of the Holy Spirit and in communion with the Diocese of Phoenix I will dedicate my energy and full time ministry to help remedy this and heal those affected.
“I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience my actions have caused.”
Father Arango also performed incorrect baptisms in his previous parishes in Brazil and San Diego.
An investigation was launched following the note from the Vatican by church leaders at the Roman Catholic Diocese.
Other priests across the US realised they had also been improperly baptised.
The Diocese revealed the situation could also impact weddings performed by the priests, although it is unclear how.
It said in a statement: “Unfortunately, there is no single clear answer. There are a number of variables when it comes to valid marriages, and the Tribunal is here to help.“
Diocese of Phoenix Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted said he did not believe Arango did not intentionally harm or deceive parishioners and remains a priest in good standing.
He added: “On behalf of our local Church, I too am sincerely sorry that this error has resulted in disruption to the sacramental lives of a number of the faithful
“This is why I pledge to take every step necessary to remedy the situation for everyone impacted.”