The longtime pastor of Chicago’s St Sabina Parish has been reinstated after being cleared of an allegation of historical sexual abuse, Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago said in a letter to the parish on Monday, August 24.
“Thank you for your prayers and support for Father Michael Pfleger during his absence while the accusation against him was investigated,” said Cardinal Cupich. He explained that the archdiocese’s Independent Review Board had come to the conclusion that “there is no reason to believe that Father Pfleger is guilty of this allegation”.
Cupich continued: “After careful consideration I have accepted their conclusion and have reinstated Father Pfleger to ministry at St Sabina, effective immediately.”
On July 11, Fr Pfleger was suspended from active ministry after an allegation that he had sexually abused a student at a school connected to St Sabina several decades ago. Fr Pfleger denied the accusations and said they were politically motivated. He had previously been accused of – and cleared of – sexual misconduct four separate times.
St Sabina is a predominantly Black parish in Chicago known for its social and community outreach programmes. Fr Pfleger has served at the parish since 1981 and is currently listed as the “senior pastor” on the parish’s website.
Fr Pfleger’s reinstatement comes days after parishioners and other community members held several rallies and protests outside Holy Name Cathedral and the archdiocesan offices. Those at the protests said they believed the process to clear Pfleger’s name had gone on for far too long and that they wanted their priest back.
In Monday’s letter, Cardinal Cupich defended the Review Board.
“An independent inquiry assures the public and the person making the accusation of a fair and impartial review of all matters related to such cases. It also protects the rights and interests of the accused cleric, especially if the board concludes there is no reason to believe the accused is guilty of the allegation,” said Cardinal Cupich.
“In that case, the cleric has the freedom to return to ministry without a cloud of suspicion over him. In short, no one should underestimate the value of an independent and disciplined inquiry, even if it is made public and requires a substantial amount of time,” he said.
Cardinal Cupich acknowledged the parish had gone through “real and painful” suffering during Fr Pfleger’s suspension during the investigation.
“But I ask you to allow God’s Word this weekend to free you from any sadness and disappointment. Respond to Christ’s invitation to join your sufferings to His saving work. Remember your dignity as disciples, those who can claim that Jesus joins your sufferings to His for the salvation of the world,” he said.
The parish, said Cardinal Cupich, “will have my support and prayers as you continue to be a light in the community, a great witness that has distinguished St Sabina’s for generations.”
