Chicago pastor David Ryan was accused last Friday of sexually abusing a minor, in addition to previous allegations made years earlier.
The accusation
Francis de Sales was informed last week by the Archdiocese of Chicago that Father David Ryan was accused of sexually abusing a minor.
According to a letter to the parishioners of St. Francis de Sales, the archdiocese has received two charges against David Ryan.
The archbishop’s office shared the letter with local media on Saturday.
The letter
On September 17, the Archbishop of Chicago wrote a long letter to the parishioners of the parish of St. Francis de Sales, stating:
“I am writing with upsetting news. Yesterday the Archdiocese received two allegations of sexual abuse of a minor against Fr. David Ryan.”
“As is the case with all such matters, the archdiocese will report these allegations to civil authorities and offer assistance to the persons who made them.”
“In keeping with our policies, I have asked Father Ryan to step aside until our Independent Review Board can investigate the allegations and present its recommendations to me.”
“He has agreed to cooperate fully with our process, which will move forward as expeditiously as possible.”
“We will provide Fr. Ryan with pastoral assistance, and I know he is grateful for your support.”
Previous allegations
The current issue highlights previous allegations of sexual abuse against Father Ryan in the fall of 2020.
Father Ryan was returned to active duty in September 2021 after the allegations were deemed “unfounded.”
The press release also revealed that the Archdiocese would report the allegations to civil authorities and assist those who made them.
That year, the Cook County District Attorney’s Office and DCFS reported the allegations.
It is unclear whether the new allegations have already been reported to authorities.
What will become of Father Ryan?
For the time being, as the archdiocese’s Independent Review Board completes its investigation into the indictment, Father Ryan will step down from his pastoral duties for the time being.
They will then make a recommendation to Archbishop Blase J. Cupich as to what follows.
Cupich announced that Father Ryan had agreed to cooperate fully with the investigation process, which would have expedited the situation.
Reference:
Lake Zurich priest faces second round of child sex abuse allegations
