Sept. 6, 2024

Dear St. Josaphat Parish and School Family,

I write to you with difficult news. The Archdiocese has been notified that the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services has opened an investigation into allegations they termed child exploitation and child molestation during a public penance service against Father Martin Nyberg. Father Nyberg, who has served your parish as associate pastor from July 1, 2024, strenuously denies the allegations.

In keeping with our policies, we reported the allegations to civil authorities and offered assistance to the accusers. I asked Father Nyberg to step aside from ministry until civil authorities have completed their investigations and our Independent Review Board has presented its recommendations to me. Father Nyberg agreed to cooperate fully with this process, and we will provide him with pastoral assistance as he awaits its outcome.

We appreciate your understanding that only with an impartial and thorough effort…