Catholic Priest in Chicago Reinstated After Investigation Clears Him of Sexual Abuse Allegations

Archdiocese of Chicago Reinstates Fr. Martin Marren

CHICAGO – A Catholic priest on Chicago’s South Side has been reinstated after no evidence supporting allegations of sexual abuse made against him last week was found.

Background of the Investigation

Last week, officials said the Department of Child and Family Services opened an investigation against Fr. Martin Marren amid allegations of alleged sexual abuse of a minor.

Investigation Findings

The Archdiocese Office for the Protection of Children and Youth presented their findings and the results of their own investigation to its Independent Review Board (IRB) on Saturday, according to officials.

No Reasonable Cause to Believe

The IRB found no reasonable cause to believe Marren sexually abused a minor and recommended the file be closed and he be returned to ministry.

Archbishop’s Statement

“It is important to stress that the welfare of the children entrusted to our care is of paramount importance. It is for that reason we take all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously. At the same time, we must restore the good name of anyone so accused when the allegations are found to be unsubstantiated,” Cupich said in a statement.

“To that end, I publicly affirm that Father Marren is a priest in good standing and express sincere appreciation for his many years of service to the People of God in the Archdiocese of Chicago. He deserves our respect and gratitude and I hope you will join me in thanking him for his long-standing dedication.”

Archdiocese’s Response

The Archdiocese of Chicago 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.

Conclusion

The reinstatement of Fr. Martin Marren is a testament to the importance of due process and the need to protect the good name of those accused of wrongdoing. The Archdiocese of Chicago remains committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all its members.

FAQs

Q: What happened to Fr. Martin Marren?
A: Fr. Martin Marren was temporarily removed from ministry after allegations of sexual abuse were made against him. However, an investigation found no evidence to support these allegations, and he has been reinstated.

Q: What is the Archdiocese of Chicago’s policy on reporting sexual abuse?
A: The Archdiocese of Chicago 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.

Q: What is the Independent Review Board (IRB)?
A: The IRB is a panel of experts who review allegations of sexual abuse and make recommendations to the Archdiocese of Chicago about how to proceed. In this case, the IRB found no reasonable cause to believe Fr. Marren sexually abused a minor and recommended that he be returned to ministry.