Unfortunate News About Fr Ryan's Reinstatement

September 16, 2021

Feast of St. Cornelius and St. Cyprian

Dear St. Francis de Sales Parish,

By now, the archdiocese will have informed you that my return to the parish will be delayed while its Independent Review Board investigates new information about an accusation against me that had been previously closed. I hope this will be expeditiously resolved. I write to you with both sadness and disappointment that I will not be returning as we had planned and with the firm belief that this additional investigation will result in my exoneration. I would like the parish to know that there is not a new accuser.

It is important that you know I categorically deny that I have ever abused a child. I have faith the investigation will confirm what I know to be true and that I will return to parish ministry when it concludes. At the same time, I want to affirm that the Church must be vigilant in protecting children and that only by investigating all such charges can we fulfill that obligation.

I am grateful to Father Jerome Jacob, Father Robert Heinz, the visiting priests, our Deacons, the parish and school staff and many volunteers in our ministries for their work during this difficult time. I pray for them and you and ask that you keep me in your prayers as we endure this separation. I am humbled by the on-going prayers and support of the good people in our good parish. Please be patient and stay together as a parish family, dedicated to the teachings of Jesus and each other.

Yours in Christ,

Fr. David F. Ryan

Dear Parishioners of St. Francis de Sales Parish,

Last week, I informed you that our Independent Review Board (IRB) had found there was insufficient reason to suspect Father David Ryan had committed sexual abuse of a minor and that I was reinstating him as your pastor, effective immediately.

However, since then, additional information, not previously provided to the Archdiocese or the IRB, has surfaced and that will mean delaying Father Ryan’s return to the parish while it is thoroughly investigated. Father Ryan has assured us that he will cooperate fully as he understands that we must take every allegation seriously in accordance with our child protection policies.

I share your disappointment at this news, especially as I know plans were being made to welcome Father Ryan back this weekend. But, I ask your patience once again as we fulfill our obligation to keep the children entrusted to us safe and proceed in a way that serves the cause of justice for all concerned. Please continue to pray for everyone involved in this matter and know that I am praying for you. We will share new information as it becomes available.

Sincerely yours in Christ

Blase Cardinal Cupich
Archbishop of Chicago