Scott Peyton, a former deacon in Louisiana, has been excommunicated from the Roman Catholic Church after his advocacy against the church’s handling of abuse cases. Peyton’s son was a victim of sexual assault by a priest, leading to legal actions and subsequent excommunication.
Peyton resigned from the diaconate in December 2023 but was later informed of his excommunication by the Lafayette diocese on March 13. This severe punishment follows Peyton’s vocal criticism of the church’s response to abuse within its ranks, particularly after the assault on his son by Father Michael Guidry.
Despite Guidry’s conviction and the Peyton family’s legal victory against the diocese, Peyton faced repercussions for his advocacy efforts. Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel excommunicated Peyton, citing Peyton’s resignation as a deacon and his vocal opposition to the church’s handling of abuse cases as reasons for the censure.
Peyton’s excommunication has drawn criticism from him and his supporters, who view it as punitive and contrary to the church’s values. Despite this, Peyton has chosen not to appeal the decree, stating that his family has endured enough.
The excommunication of Peyton underscores ongoing tensions within the Catholic Church regarding its response to abuse allegations and the treatment of advocates who speak out against institutional failings.