On May 7, 2026, the Diocese of Palm Beach announced that Rev. Alex J. Vargas, pastor of St. Thomas More Parish in Boynton Beach, was placed on administrative leave pending a formal investigation after the Diocese received information regarding what it described as “serious charges” involving the priest.
The Diocese stated that Vargas’ ministerial faculties were withdrawn immediately and that he is prohibited from exercising priestly ministry during the investigation.
In July 2025, Vargas became pastor of St. Thomas More Parish, located on S. Military Trail in Boynton Beach, after serving at other parishes throughout the Diocese of Palm Beach. Vargas born in Honduras.
Diocese of Palm Beach Announces Investigation
According to media reports, the Diocese of Palm Beach stated that it had initiated a formal investigation into allegations involving Vargas and reported the allegations to the Palm Beach County State Attorney and the Department of Children and Families.
According to the Diocese:
- Vargas has been placed on administrative leave effective immediately
- His ministerial faculties have been withdrawn
- He is prohibited from engaging in any public ministry
- He may not have contact with parishioners, employees, volunteers, ministries, or affiliated organizations of the Diocese of Palm Beach without express authorization
- The matter has been reported to civil authorities
The Diocese stated that the restrictions were imposed to protect those involved and preserve the integrity of the investigative process. The Diocese also emphasized that Vargas is presumed innocent unless and until the allegations are proven.
At this time, neither the Diocese nor law enforcement authorities have publicly disclosed the nature of the allegations. The Diocese stated only that the matter involves “serious charges” and that it has been reported to civil authorities.
Leadership Changes at St. Thomas More Parish
According to media reports, as part of the announcement, the Diocese appointed Very Rev. Antony Pulikal as parochial administrator of St. Thomas More Parish. According to the Diocese, Pulikal has been granted full pastoral, administrative, and financial authority over the parish while the investigation is pending.
Diocese Encourages Reporting
The Diocese of Palm Beach encouraged anyone with information relevant to the matter to come forward. According to the Diocese, individuals with information regarding the allegations may contact the Diocese of Palm Beach reporting line. Reports involving suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult may also be made to the Florida Abuse Hotline.
The Diocese further stated that it remains committed to maintaining safe environments throughout its parishes, schools, and ministries.
Priests Occupy Positions of Trust
When parishioners seek spiritual guidance, counseling, or support from a priest, they often do so during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Priests are entrusted with positions of authority and influence that carry significant responsibility within their faith communities.
Religious leaders are expected to provide guidance, support, and care in a manner that respects personal boundaries and protects the well-being of those they serve. Any abuse of that trust can have profound and lasting effects on individuals, families, and entire faith communities.
Although the Diocese of Palm Beach has not disclosed the nature of the allegations against Rev. Alex Vargas, the Diocese’s decision to remove him from ministry, prohibit contact with parishioners, and initiate a formal investigation reflects the seriousness with which church officials are treating the allegations while the investigation remains ongoing.
Horowitz Law Is Here to Help
Horowitz Law represents survivors of clergy sexual abuse and misconduct. We have handled multiple cases involving priests in the Diocese of Palm Beach as well as ministers, youth pastors, and other religious leaders. Religious institutions are expected to provide safe environments for parishioners and families, free from abuse, exploitation, and misconduct.
When religious leaders abuse positions of trust, survivors may suffer significant emotional, psychological, and spiritual harm. Survivors have the right to seek accountability and justice.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse or misconduct by a priest, minister, youth pastor, or other religious leader, please contact our law firm at 888-283-9922 or email sexual abuse lawyer Adam Horowitz for a free consultation.