CHICAGO (IL)
WLS - ABC 7 [Chicago IL]
November 9, 2025
MELROSE PARK, Ill. (WLS) — A deacon who served at a Chicago-area church is facing an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor, the Archdiocese of Chicago said.
Deacon Rajan Fernando serves at St. Joseph Parish in north suburban Round Lake, Illinois.
Fernando will be stepping away from ministry during an investigation into the accusation, Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, announced.
“I know that this is difficult news, but the welfare of our parishioners is of critical importance to me,” Cupich said.
Civil authorities and the Archdiocese are conducting investigations. According to the Archdiocese, Fernando has denied the allegation.
” We encourage anyone who feels they have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee to come forward. You will be received with compassion and respect,” Cupich said in the letter.
The Archdiocese did not provide further details about the abuse allegations.