August 27, 2002 Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman,
Archdiocese of Boston Concerning Father Paul J. Bolduc
The Archdiocese of Boston in accordance with its policy for handling
allegations of sexual misconduct with minors by members of the clergy
today placed Father Paul J. Bolduc, a priest on health leave who was in
residence at St. Anne Parish in the Readville section of Boston, Massachusetts,
on administrative leave. Our policy calls for a thorough investigation
by the Delegate's Office and our agreement with civil authorities calls
for notification to the Attorney General's office in cases such as this.
The complaint made against Father Bolduc was recently reported for the
first time to the Archdiocese of Boston regarding an incident that would
have occurred over thirty years ago. Pastoral and counseling support has
been offered to both the person making the allegation and the accused
priest.
The first priority of the Archdiocese of Boston is the protection of
children. The rights of the alleged victim and the accused priest are
to be respected and any action taken in the course of an investigation
should not be construed as implication of guilt of the accused cleric.
Our obligation as representatives of the Church and as a community, legally
and morally, is 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 authorities is complete, Father Bolduc
will receive a salary and medical benefits but he will not have permission
to perform any public ministry in the Church. If the allegation proves
to be groundless, efforts will be made to restore the priest's reputation.
Representatives of the Archdiocese of Boston are in contact with the
Pastor of St. Anne Parish. Efforts are at present being made to inform
the people of the parish regarding this situation. Bishop John P. Boles,
Regional Bishop of the Central Region will be present at the weekend Masses
to inform parishioners and provide assistance during this upsetting time
for the parish community. A clinical social worker also will be present
to assist parishioners.
Our prayers continue to be with victims and their families, the faithful
of the Archdiocese, the priests, deacons, men and women religious, and
all those who have been affected by instances of child abuse by members
of the clergy.
(Other press releases and statements)
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