(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago activist priest Michael Pflegler has stepped away from his ministry duties at Saint Sabina’s Church as the Archdiocese of Chicago investigates an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor, Cardinal Blase Cupich announced Tuesday.
The allegation dates back to more than 40 years ago, Cupich said in a letter to congregation members.
“Allegations are claims that have not been proven as true or false. Therefore, guilt or innocence should not be assumed,” he wrote.
He said Pfleger will cooperate fully and live away from the parish during the investigation, which is being conducted by the archdiocese's Office for Child Abuse Investigations and Review.
Father Thulani Magwaza will serve as temporary administrator of Saint Sabina Parish.
Pfleger for decades has been an anti-violence activist who sometimes generates controversy. He most recently staged a silent march in downtown Chicago. His parish is located on the city’s South Side.
The Cabinet of St. Sabina issued a statement later Tuesday backing Pfleger and saying “these accusations are unfounded.”
“We believe that our Sr. Pastor will be fully exonerated from all accusations and we will stand with him during this process,” it said.
Here is Cardinal Cupich’s full letter:
"Dear members of the Faith Community of Saint Sabina and the Saint Sabina Academy Community,
I write to share some difficult news about your senior pastor, Father Michael Pfleger. In keeping with our child protection policies, I have asked Father Pfleger to step aside from ministry following receipt by the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for Child Abuse Investigations and Review of an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor more than 40 years ago. Allegations are claims that have not been proven as true or false. Therefore, guilt or innocence should not be assumed.
Father Pfleger has agreed to cooperate fully with my request and will live away from the parish while this matter is investigated. Your pastor, Father Thulani Magwaza will serve as temporary administrator of Saint Sabina Parish and will attend to the needs of the parish and school community.
Moreover, as is required by our child protection policies, the allegation was reported to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the Cook County State’s Attorney. The person making the allegation has been offered the services of our Victim Assistance Ministry and the archdiocese has begun its investigation.
In the days and weeks ahead, members of the archdiocese’s Office for the Protection of Children and Youth will be available to answer any questions you may have and provide you with support during this challenging time.
It is crucial that you know nothing is more important than the welfare of the children entrusted to our care. The Archdiocese of Chicago takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and encourages anyone who feels they have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee to come forward. Complete information about reporting sexual abuse can be found on the archdiocesan website at ww w.archchi cago.org .
Please know that you are in my prayers. We will do our best to keep you informed of developments as they occur.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago"
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