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James Goodness |
For Release : June 30, 2006 |
Statement by James Goodness, Director of Communications, on the Status of Father George Gillen
Since April 28, Father George Gillen, the people of St. Genevieve parish in Elizabeth and St. Joseph the Carpenter in Roselle, the community of Union Catholic Regional High School, and the Archdiocese of Newark in general have undergone a grave trial of patience and faith. As pastor of this community and as a leader in many other ministries throughout his 35 years of service to the Church, Father Gillen has served the Lord as He deepened the faith of thousands of people here in northern New Jersey.
Unfortunately, because of allegations of sexual misconduct that had been brought to its attention only recently, the Archdiocese had no option but to undertake an extensive, time-consuming inquiry to discover whether any action under canon law should be brought against Father Gillen. With this inquiry, the Archdiocese followed procedures established in accordance with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Conference Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, and particular Church law for the United States as approved by Rome.
During this time, Father Gillen agreed to step aside from his ministry and the Archdiocese has been most grateful for his understanding and his adherence to the procedures it must follow. While it was a necessary step in order to allow the inquiry to proceed, the absence of this pastor from his flock unfortunately caused rifts in this faith community, rifts that will take time to heal.
The Archdiocesan Review Board, the independent panel of mainly lay people who investigate allegations for the Archdiocese, weighed carefully all of the information, and determined that there is no reason to recommend canonical action against Father Gillen.
Unfortunately, because of allegations of sexual misconduct that had been brought to its attention only recently, the Archdiocese had no option but to undertake an extensive, time-consuming inquiry to discover whether any action under canon law should be brought against Father Gillen. With this inquiry, the Archdiocese followed procedures established in accordance with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Conference Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, and particular Church law for the United States as approved by Rome.
During this time, Father Gillen agreed to step aside from his ministry and the Archdiocese has been most grateful for his understanding and his adherence to the procedures it must follow. While it was a necessary step in order to allow the inquiry to proceed, the absence of this pastor from his flock unfortunately caused rifts in this faith community, rifts that will take time to heal.
The Archdiocesan Review Board, the independent panel of mainly lay people who investigate allegations for the Archdiocese, weighed carefully all of the information, and determined that there is no reason to recommend canonical action against Father Gillen.
Therefore, I am delighted to tell you today that Father George Gillen is returned to active ministry as pastor of St. Genevieve Parish, effective immediately.
Archbishop Myers has written to Father Gillen to apologize for the difficulties that he has had to endure, and at this time, on behalf Archbishop Myers, I wish to acknowledge the pain that this has caused the people of St. Genevieve, and express our sorrow.
We are happy that the process has restored Father Gillen’s reputation and his place in the community.
Archbishop Myers has written to Father Gillen to apologize for the difficulties that he has had to endure, and at this time, on behalf Archbishop Myers, I wish to acknowledge the pain that this has caused the people of St. Genevieve, and express our sorrow.
We are happy that the process has restored Father Gillen’s reputation and his place in the community.
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