Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman, Archdiocese of Boston
May 31, 2002
The Archdiocese of Boston in accordance with our policy for handling
allegations of sexual misconduct with minors by members of the clergy
today placed Reverend John Lyons, Pastor of Saint Rose of Lima Parish
in Rochester, Massachusetts on administrative leave and removed
him from all assignments pending further review of allegations made
against him. The policy of the Archdiocese of Boston calls for a
thorough investigation by the Delegate's Office and Review Board
and notification to proper legal authorities in cases such as this.
The allegations made against Reverend Lyons were reported for the
first time to the Archdiocese of Boston this week regarding past
incidents. Following our policy it was determined that the allegations
had enough substance to warrant further investigation by the Archdiocese
of Boston and law enforcement authorities and met the criteria to
place Father Lyons on administrative leave. Pastoral and counseling
support has been offered to both the people making the allegations
and the accused priest.
Our first priority is the protection of children. At the same time
we are mindful of the rights of the accused priest and any action
taken in the course of an investigation should not be construed
as implication of guilt of the accused cleric. It is our obligation
as representatives of the Church and as a community, legally and
morally, to fully investigate all past allegations of abuse of a
minor. Until the resolution of the investigation by representatives
of the Church and by the proper legal authorities is complete, Father
Lyons will continue to receive his salary and medical benefits but
he will not have permission to perform public ministry in the Church.
Should the allegation prove to be groundless, efforts will be made
to restore the priest's reputation.
Pastoral and counseling support will be provided to Saint Rose
of Lima Parish. Reverend Bryan Parrish, Vicar of the Plymouth Vicariate,
will attend the weekend Masses to inform parishioners and provide
assistance during this upsetting time for the parish community.
A clinical social worker from the Archdiocese will also be available
to provide assistance at the parish. During the course of an investigation
responsive steps may need to be taken quickly and regrettably, in
this case, we were not able to inform parishioners first before
making a public statement.
This is a distressing and painful time and our prayers are with
victims and their families, the faithful of the Archdiocese, and
all those who have been effected by instances of child abuse by
members of the clergy.
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