Outspoken activist priest Father Michael Pfleger will return to the pulpit, after a Chicago archdiocese investigation concluded there was “insufficient reason” to suspect he was guilty of allegations of sexual abuse.
Cardinal Blase Cupich announced the decision in a carefully-worded statement on May 24, saying, “The Review Board has concluded that there is insufficient reason to suspect Father Pfleger is guilty of these allegations.” Earlier this year, Fr. Pfleger had been accused of sexual abuse by three alleged victims, including by two brothers.
Cardinal Cupich said the Independent Review Board, along with the archdiocesan Office of Child Abuse Investigation and Review as well as outside investigators, conducted “a thorough review” of the allegations in accord with archdiocese policy.
The cardinal said he gave “careful consideration” to the review board’s decision, which he accepts. Pfleger will be reinstated as senior pastor at his parish, St. Sabina Church, effective the weekend of June 5-6.
“I have asked Father Pfleger to take the next two weeks to prepare himself spiritually and emotionally to return, realizing that these months have taken a great toll on him. He has agreed to do so,” said the cardinal.
He thanked the parishioners for their “patience and prayers” during Pfleger’s absence.
After the cardinal announced his decision, Pfleger again declared his innocence.
“I am innocent of those charges and accusations and I cannot tell you how grateful I am to God and all those who supported me and prayed to me during this time,” Pfleger said at a Monday afternoon press conference, WGN 9 News reported. “This has been the most difficult and trying time of my life. I have been frustrated, I have been angry, I have been depressed and I have been discouraged.”