The Archdiocese of Chicago announced Sept. 6 that a state investigation is underway into alleged sexual abuse by a newly ordained priest.

In letters addressed to the two churches where Father Martin Nyberg served starting in June 2023, Chicago Cardinal Blase J. Cupich said the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, or DCFS, is looking into allegations against Father Nyberg “they termed child exploitation and child molestation during a public penance service.”

The cardinal stated in the letter the accused priest “strenuously denies the allegations.”

Father Nyberg, whom the archdiocese listed as 28 years old at his ordination in May, began his priesthood as associate pastor starting July 1 at St. Josaphat Parish in Chicago. From June 2023 through May 2024, he served as deacon at St. Paul of the Cross Parish in the western suburbs.

Cardinal Cupich said he “asked Father Nyberg to step aside from his ministry…