Archdiocese of Chicago
June 4, 2005
Read by Most. Rev. Thad J. Jakubowski on behalf of Most Rev. Gustavo Garcia-Siller, Auxiliary Bishop and Episcopal Vicar of Vicariate V, at Masses on June 4 - 5, 2005.
My dear people,
On my behalf, retired Auxiliary Bishop Thad Jakubowski joins you today to share some very difficult news concerning your parish.
Fr. Walter Turlo has resigned as your pastor, following an allegation received by officials of the Archdiocese of Chicago that he engaged in highly inappropriate behavior with a minor approximately 30 years ago while he served as an associate pastor at St. William Parish in Chicago. This allegation has been reported to the Cook County State's Attorney.
Out of concern for possible risk to children and young people, officials of the Archdiocese recommended that Fr. Turlo be withdrawn from ministry, and Cardinal George accepted that recommendation. Fr. Turlo subsequently resigned as your pastor, and is cooperating with archdiocesan officials while residing in a monitored and restricted setting.
If any parishioner has additional information or a concern to raise regarding Fr. Turlo, please contact our Archdiocesan Professional Responsibility Administrator directly at 1-800-994-6200. You may also contact the Office of the Cook County State's Attorney at 312-603-5440 or the Office of the Lake County State's Attorney at 847-377-3000.
Though there is no doubt that this is extremely sad and unsettling news, I think that our most natural inclination now is also the most helpful: please join me in praying for peace and healing for the adult who brought this concern to the Archdiocese, for Fr. Turlo, and for all those who have suffered abuse in their lives.
If there is more information to be shared, I will share it with you. For the time being, Fr. Harry Bonin, associate pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Summit, has been asked to serve as administrator at St. Fabian Parish. I have assured him that your parish shall have any additional assistance you need going forward.
Thank you for the trust you place in your priests. Be assured that Cardinal George and I will be praying for all of you in a special way over the coming weeks and months.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
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Most Rev. Gustavo Garcia-Siller
Episcopal Vicar of Vicariate V
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