PHILADELPHIA (PA)
Catholics4Change
DECEMBER 13, 2013 BY SUSAN MATTHEWS
Kathy and I have heard through several sources that internal investigations have concluded on most of the priests removed from ministry. These are the priests Archbishop Chaput temporarily removed from ministry in light of the list recovered during Msgr. Lynn’s trial. In some cases, the statute of limitations for child sex abuse had expired while the list was hidden. The Archdiocesan investigators and review board made recommendations to Archbishop Chaput.
The announcements may be made at “affected” parishes this weekend after Masses. However, all Catholics and Philadelphia-area residents are affected by clergy child sex abuse. These priests may go back into the community with no Megan’s Law listing to alert neighbors. Until their appeals to Rome are finalized, they will receive stipends. If they choose a life of prayer and penance, the Archdiocese continues to care for their financial needs. All will receive their full pensions – even if they are laicized.
The Archdiocese does not share specific information on priests who were permanently removed from ministry. We do not know if they’ve chosen a life of prayer and penance, are awaiting appeals to the Vatican or are living in our communities.
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