Fr. John A. Close

Ordained: 1969
Status: Settled

Died: 03/6/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Monsignor. One of 21 priests placed on leave by archdiocese 3/7/2011 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last served as pastor at St. Katharine of Siena in Wayne. In 1998, a man who was in prison for murder accused Close of abusing him as a boy on several occasions in 1969-1970. No action. Close denied the allegations. In 4/2011, another man claimed abuse in 1992-1994. Found suitable for ministry 7/6/2012 after the Review Board determined misconduct claims against him were unsubstantiated. Died 3/6/2018. In 8/2023 the Archdiocese agreed to a $3.5M settlement with a man, age 30, who claimed Close sexually assaulted him at age 14 in 2006. The man said the rape occurred during confession at St. Katherine’s of Sienna, and that Close threatened him with eternal damnation if he told.


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