October 14, 2002 - Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman, Archdiocese
of Boston
The Archdiocese of Boston announces in accordance with its policy for
handling allegations of sexual misconduct with minors by members of the
clergy today placed Father Roger N. Jacques, Pastor of Saint Joseph Parish
in Waltham, Massachusetts on "administrative leave" and removed him from
all assignments pending further review of an allegation made against him.
This 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 within forty-eight hours in cases such as this.
The complaint made against Father Jacques was recently reported for the
first time to the Archdiocese of Boston regarding allegations that would
have occurred approximately twenty 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. Any action taken in the course of an investigation should not
be construed as implication of guilt against the accused cleric.
Our obligation as representatives of the Church and as a community,
legally and morally, is to fully investigate all 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 Jacques
will receive a salary and medical benefits but he will not have permission
to perform any public ministry in the Church. As in all cases, efforts
are made to respect the rights of all parties and, to the best of our
ability, to maintain their reputations. Should the allegation be proven
groundless we will do all we can to restore the priest's reputation.
Representatives of the Archdiocese of Boston have met with the parish
staff of Saint Joseph Parish. Efforts are at present being made to inform
the people of the parish regarding this situation. Bishop Richard G. Lennon,
Regional Bishop of the West Region, along with other Archdiocesan pastoral
support representatives and clinical social workers will be present at
the weekend Masses to inform parishioners and to be present to the parish
community.
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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