PENNSYLVANIA
Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Catholic
Posted: Tues., Aug. 12, 2014
Pittsburgh Catholic Staff Report
Bishop David Zubik has placed Father John Fitzgerald, 66, the pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish in Conway, Beaver County, on administrative leave pending further investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor.
This action was taken the day after diocesan officials met with an individual who alleged abuse by Father Fitzgerald in the late 1990s. Diocesan officials immediately reported the allegation to the district attorneys of Allegheny County and Lawrence County because the abuse was alleged to have occurred in both jurisdictions.
Prior to this, no other allegation of sexual abuse against Father Fitzgerald has come to the diocese’s notice. Father Fitzgerald has denied committing any acts of sexual abuse. While he is on administrative leave he cannot administer the sacraments, dress in clerical attire or identify himself as a priest.
A letter from Bishop Zubik was read at all Masses Aug. 2-3 at Our Lady of Peace, and a diocesan official answered questions afterward. A copy of the letter will be mailed to all the parishioners.
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