Deacon James Rush

Ordained: 1979
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Harrisburg PA

Deacon. Name included on Harrisburg diocese’s list released 8/1/18. Included in the PA Grand Jury Report 8/14/18. Affiliated with the NY archdiocese prior to 2001. Accused in 2015 by two women of inappropriate behavior “that crossed boundary lines.” Confronted by diocese, retired. Allowed to minister only with “explicit permission.” Report to Children and Youth Services and to diocese in 2016 of a recent inappropriate relationship with a 14-year-old girl. Behavior allegedly included hugging and kissing the girl, holding her hand, and telling her she was his “girlfriend.” Harrisburg diocese determined the behavior was “grooming,” not abuse.


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