Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman, Archdiocese
of Boston Concerning Fr. Bourgault - June 26, 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 Ronald L. Bourgault, Pastor of Saint Zepherin Parish
in Wayland, Massachusetts on administrative leave and removed him from
all assignments pending further review of an allegation 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 within forty-eight hours in cases such as this.
The allegation made against Reverend Bourgault was recently reported
for the first time to the Archdiocese of Boston regarding an incident
that occurred over thirty years ago. Following our policy it was determined
that the allegation had enough substance to warrant further investigation
by the Archdiocese of Boston and law enforcement authorities and met the
criteria to place Father Bourgault on administrative leave. Pastoral and
counseling support has been offered to both the person making the allegation
and the accused priest.
Our first priority is the protection of children. We respect and are
mindful of the rights of victims and accused priests 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 Bourgault 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.
Representatives of the Archdiocese of Boston have already met with the
parish staff of St. Zepherin's. Efforts are at present being made to inform
the people of the parish regarding this situation. Bishop Richard Lennon,
Regional Bishop-West Region of the Archdiocese of Boston, will attend
the weekend Masses to inform parishioners and provide assistance during
this upsetting time for the parish community. A clinical social worker
will also be available to provide assistance at the parish.
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.
(Other press releases and statements)
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