CHICAGO (IL)
WGN

[with video]

Francis Cardinal George has asked the pastor of a Chicago church to reside away from his congregation while a sex abuse allegation is investigated.

Reverend Michael O’Connell, the pastor of St. Alphonsus parish, agreed to step aside after an allegation that he engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor 20-years ago.

The allegation pertains to a time when he served in a different parish.

The archdiocese said the action is not a judgment of guilt and Rev O’Connell remains at the head of St. Alphonsus parish.