BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) - The Archdiocese of Boston announced Sunday that it has placed a North Reading priest on administrative leave after receiving an allegation of sexual abuse.

The allegation concerns Rev. Thomas M. Gillespie, who is the pastor of St. Theresa of the Lisieux Parish.

The Archdiocese said in a press release issued Sunday that the alleged misconduct involves a minor and reportedly happened decades ago. It reportedly happened in the late 1970's, but was just recently reported to the church.

The Archdiocese said it immediately notified law enforcement of the allegation and also has initiated its own investigation into the complaint.

The church said Fr. Gillespie will remain on administrative leave without any public ministry until the investigations are complete.

"The decision to place Fr. Gillespie on administrative leave represents the Archdiocese's commitment to the welfare of all parties and does not represent a determination of Fr. Gillespie's guilt or innocence as it pertains to this allegation," the statement read.