Fr. Jerome B. Ratermann

Ordained: 1957
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Belleville IL

The diocese knew of Ratermann’s sexual abuse of boys in 1968 while he was principal of Mater Dei High School in Breese. Placed on leave and, per the IL Attorney General’s Report in 5/2023, “the case was resolved by the bishop, parents and the State’s Attorney.” Assigned to parish ministry. Per the A.G., the diocese claimed it first received a report of abuse by Ratermann in 1986. Ratermann admitted that the abuse “could have happened.” Kept in ministry, moved to another parish. Suspended in 3/1993 after another allegation. Permanently barred from ministry. Denied all allegations. Appealed his case to Rome in 2002 when the bishop refused to reinstate him. On 1/24/2009 the diocesan website gave his status as “Administrative Leave/ Retired.” Suit filed in 4/2009, settled in 3/2012. Name included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused 12/19/2018. One man told the A.G. he was abused as a Ss. Peter and Paul altar boy, at the parish and on house boat trips. Ratermann was assigned to the parish 1971-1985. At least seven accusers. 

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