Retired Chicago Priest Accused of Sexually Abusing a Minor

Investigation Launched Following Allegation

The Archdiocese of Chicago has launched an investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor against retired Chicago-area priest Msgr. Daniel Mayall. The alleged abuse is said to have occurred approximately 30 years ago while Mayall was assigned to Saint Francis Borgia Parish in Dunning.

Allegation Dates Back to the 1990s

According to the Archdiocese, the alleged abuse took place while Mayall was serving at Saint Francis Borgia Parish in Dunning, a northwestern suburb of Chicago. Mayall has since retired and was residing at Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish in Wilmette.

Priest Denies Allegation

Msgr. Mayall "strenuously denies" the allegation, according to a letter from Cardinal Blase Cupich to the parish communities. Cupich has directed Mayall to remain out of ministry and refrain from all parish and school activities, in line with the Archdiocese’s policies.

Mayall’s Career in the Archdiocese

Mayall served as senior priest of Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish from January 2019 to 2021. He also previously served as pastor of Saint Joseph Parish from July 2016 to December 2018 and rector of Chicago’s Holy Name Cathedral.

Archdiocese’s Response

The Archdiocese of Chicago has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and has a clear process for reporting and investigating allegations. The Archdiocese works closely with law enforcement and other agencies to ensure that allegations are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible for the abuse are held accountable.

Conclusion

The Archdiocese of Chicago is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all its members. The alleged abuse by Msgr. Mayall is a serious violation of that commitment, and the Archdiocese is taking immediate action to address the situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Archdiocese’s response to the allegation?
  • The Archdiocese has launched an investigation into the allegation and has directed Msgr. Mayall to remain out of ministry and refrain from all parish and school activities.
• Has Msgr. Mayall been found guilty of any wrongdoing?
  • No, the allegation is still under investigation, and Msgr. Mayall has denied the allegations.
• What is the Archdiocese’s policy on sexual abuse?
  • The Archdiocese has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and works closely with law enforcement and other agencies to ensure that allegations are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible for the abuse are held accountable.