(NY)
The Tablet [Diocese of Brooklyn NY]
October 22, 2025
By Tablet Staff
The Diocese of Brooklyn’s Adult Allegation Committee has substantiated a “Code of Conduct violation, grooming, and sexual harassment” allegation against Father Philip Pizzo, a retired priest in the diocese.
Father Pizzo, 75, is infirm and has not been in ministry for six years, according to the diocese. He lives in the residence for senior priests.
The diocese said it received an allegation of inappropriate conduct regarding Father Pizzo on July 16, and an ensuing investigation by the Adult Allegation Committee found “sufficient evidence” to substantiate claims from 2017 made by Carmine Megaro, 27, of Queens.
Comprised of law enforcement, human resources, law, and psychology professionals, the Adult Allegation Committee investigates allegations against clergy involving an adult.
The diocese is now working on the required canonical process to adjudicate the case and impose canonical penalties on Father Pizzo, which could include his official and permanent removal from ministry, according to the spokesperson.
If he is permanently removed from ministry, Father Pizzo would not be permitted to celebrate Mass publicly, exercise any public ministry (cannot wear the collar, hear confessions, preach, or teach), and cannot live in a parochial residence.
The Adult Allegation Committee’s findings are not a legal determination of guilt, but are a recognition of the possibility that wrongdoing may have taken place.
The diocese adheres to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, passed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2002, that includes a “zero tolerance” policy stating that any clergy member credibly accused of abuse be removed from ministry and has established a toll-free telephone hotline (1-888-634-4499) for people to report allegations. All calls are forwarded to law enforcement officials.
In addition, the diocese has instituted programs aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse, such as conducting background checks on all employees and volunteers and providing age-appropriate sexual abuse awareness training for children and adults.
The Office of Victim Assistance Ministry provides counseling, referrals to therapy, and pastoral services for victims of sexual abuse. The diocese also hosts an annual Mass of Hope and Healing where the faithful come together to pray for the victims of clergy sexual abuse. This year’s Mass will take place on Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. at St. Finbar Church in Bath Beach.
For information on how the diocese is dealing with sex abuse, visit the Office of Safe Environment and “Protecting our Children” on the diocese’s website.