Fr. Gerald Shirilla

Ordained: 1968
Status: Sued

Died: 06/16/2004
Diocese: Archdiocese of Detroit MI

Removed in 1973 from a seminary assignment after unwanted sexual contact with another seminarian; underwent psychiatric evaluation then assigned to a parish. Accused of abuse of at least seven youths 1972-1981. Would invite boys to the rectory, have them strip to their underwear and give them massages. Placed on leave by the Detroit Archdiocese in 1993; accused in a 10/1993 lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy, ages 9-16. Sent to treatment. Took a secular job in Washington D.C. Assigned in the Diocese of Gaylord as a parish pastor 8/1/2001 until placed on leave 3/18/2002. Died in 6/2004. Named in several civil suits. Included on the Detroit archdiocese’s list of credibly accused 6/10/2019, which noted that he had been removed from public ministry. Included in the MI Attorney General’s 1/8/2024 Gaylord report.


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