Two Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors at Chicago Parishes
Accusations Surface Against Fr. Matthew Foley and Fr. Henry Kricek
Fr. Matthew Foley, who served at St. Agatha Parish in Lawndale, and Fr. Henry Kricek, who served at St. John Bosco Parish in Belmont Cragin, have been accused of sexually abusing a minor, according to the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Timeline of Incidents
* Fr. Foley is accused of sexually abusing a minor while assigned to St. Agatha Parish nearly 30 years ago.
* Fr. Kricek is accused of sexually abusing a minor while assigned to St. John Bosco Parish about 40 years ago.
Archdiocese’s Response
Cardinal Blase J. Cupich has released a letter to families of multiple parishes, stating that both priests have been asked to step away from ministry as authorities investigate the allegations. The Archdiocese has “strenuously” denied the allegations.
Investigation and Support Services
The Archdiocese has reported the allegations to civil authorities and has offered support services to the alleged victim through their Victim Assistance Ministry. The Archdiocese has also begun its own investigation, which will be completed after the civil authorities have finished their work.
Child Protection Policies
The Archdiocese 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. The Archdiocese’s child protection policies require that all allegations be reported to civil authorities, and the person making the allegation be offered the services of the Victim Assistance Ministry.
Conclusion
The Archdiocese of Chicago is committed to ensuring the welfare of the children entrusted to their care and takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously. The Archdiocese encourages anyone who has been affected by sexual abuse to come forward and seek support.
FAQs
* What is the Archdiocese’s policy on reporting allegations of sexual misconduct?
+ The Archdiocese requires that all allegations be reported to civil authorities and offers support services to the person making the allegation through their Victim Assistance Ministry.
* What is the process for investigating allegations of sexual misconduct?
+ The Archdiocese begins its own investigation after the civil authorities have finished their work, and the results are reported to the Independent Review Board.
* How does the Archdiocese support victims of sexual abuse?
+ The Archdiocese offers support services through their Victim Assistance Ministry and encourages anyone who feels they have been sexually abused to come forward.
