Chicago Archdiocese asks retired priest, Father James McIlhone, to step away from ministry amid sex abuse allegation

CHICAGO (WLS) — A retired Chicago priest has been requested to step away from ministry following an allegation that he sexually abused a minor 4O years in the past, in response to Cardinal Blase Cupich.

In a letter, Cupich stated the alleged abuse occurred whereas Father James McIlhone was the affiliate pastor of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish in Mundelein within the Nineteen Eighties.

“Allegations are claims that haven’t been confirmed and for that reason, there must be a full investigation,” stated a letter to the parish.

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Cardinal Cupich stated the priest has been requested to maneuver away from the Saint Edward parish the place he has been dwelling throughout retirement. Letters had been despatched to each the St. Edward and Santa Maria del Popolo parishes Saturday.

The one that made the allegation has been supplied sufferer assist companies, and the archdiocese has begun its investigation of those issues, in response to the Archdiocese of Chicago.

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“The Archdiocese of Chicago takes all allegations of sexual misconduct critically and encourages anybody who feels they’ve been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, non secular or lay worker to come back ahead,” the letter continued.

The allegations have additionally been reported to the Lake County State’s Legal professional.