Fr. Michael J. Raleigh

Ordained: 1936
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

May be the same individual as “Friar” Raleigh or “Edmund Raleigh” accused in 2002, based on assignments and date of death. Four men accused Rev. Michael Raleigh of forcing them to engage in various sexual acts when they were children or young teens in the 1950s. Michael Raleigh had numerous parish assignments, was a Dean and Tribunal judge. Absent on Leave 1951-56. Died in 4/12/79. There were 5 claims against Michael Raleigh by 4/07. No evidence found in the Official Catholic Directory of Edmund Raleigh. There was a Rev. Edmond Bliven at the parish in question in 1956, per the Directory. “Edmund” Raleigh was accused in a lawsuit filed in 5/02 of abusing a boy, beginning in 1956 when the boy was age 12 or 13, at St. John the Apostle in Oregon City. Per the plaintiff, Raleigh and Rev. Martin Doherty abused him and also forced him to watch as they engaged in group sex with other minors.


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