Elkhart, Iowa — A Catholic priest has resigned, soon after he was reinstated at the Saint Mary Holy Cross parish in Elkhart. The diocese had suspended Father Jim Kirby in 2020 for making inappropriate comments about a Simpson College student. Kirby was a part-time track coach there. He is no longer affiliated with Simpson College. The diocese had reinstated Kirby in April, saying he had completed a rehabilitation program.

The parish announced the resignation of Father Kirby in a newsletter Sunday. The statement read in-part: “Fr. Jim Kirby tendered his resignation as pastor of St. Mary-Holy Cross, Elkhart, Iowa. The Diocese looks to fill this position; however, at this time no other priests are available to serve as pastor. I ask for your prayers for Fr. Kirby and the parish.”