Sources: Decision on Suspended Archdiocesan Priests Imminent

CBS Philly
May 2, 2012

http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2012/05/02/sources-decision-on-suspended-archdiocesan-priests-imminent/

Eyewitness News has learned that a decision regarding dozens of priests suspended by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is imminent.

Sources have told Eyewitness News that Archbishop Charles Chaput is expected to make an announcement regarding the suspended 27 priests in the coming days.

The 27 priests were suspended for misconduct or sexual abuse allegations following a 2011 Grand Jury report.

Archbishop Chaput has called all Archdiocesan priests to a 2 p.m. meeting Wednesday at Cardinal O’Hara High School in Springfield, Pa.

The invitation to priests was sent by email Monday, although the purpose of the meeting was not included in the email.

The meeting comes days before Archbishop Chaput’s self-imposed deadline to restore some or all of the suspended priest to clerical duty.

The priests were suspended by Cardinal Justin Rigali after the 2011 Grand Jury report.

A letter was sent home to catholic school parents in the Archdiocese around Easter alerting them that a decision was forthcoming.

Sources say counselors will be sent to the Philadelphia area on Friday to work with any potential victims.