Chicago priest reinstated after review board finds insufficient evidence in latest sex abuse allegation

The Archdiocese of Chicago, Illinois, reinstated Father Michael Pfleger to active ministry at St. Sabina Parish after an independent review found no reason to believe a recent sexual abuse allegation against him. 

In an Aug. 24 letter to the parish’s faithful shared by the archdiocese, Cardinal Blase Cupich said the Independent Review Board, assisted by the archdiocese’s Office of Child Protection and outside investigators, thoroughly examined the claim and concluded there was “no reason to believe Father Pfleger is guilty of this allegation.”

“After careful consideration, I have accepted their conclusion and have reinstated Father Pfleger to ministry at St. Sabina, effective immediately,” Cardinal Cupich wrote.

Father Pfleger, 77, was removed from the parish in July after the archdiocese received an allegation that he sexually abused a child roughly 30 years ago. As Zeale News previously reported, Father Pfleger denied the claim at the time, calling it an “absolute lie.” 

Father Pfleger has faced multiple previous allegations of sexual abuse that the archdiocese has cleared. He was placed on leave in 2022 after similar allegations were filed alleging he sexually abused two brothers in the 1970s, Zeale News also reported. The archdiocese cleared him in those cases, and he returned to ministry. 

In his letter, Cardinal Cupich thanked parishioners for their prayers and support during the priest’s absence and acknowledged the “real and painful” impact it had on the community. He urged parishioners to reflect on the coming Sunday’s Gospel passage and allow it to “free you from any sadness and disappointment.”

“You will have my support and prayers as you continue to be a light in the community, a great witness that has distinguished St. Sabina’s for generations,” Cardinal Cupich wrote.

At a press conference outside St. Sabina on Aug. 26, Father Pfleger criticized archdiocesan procedures for handling abuse accusations, arguing that they leave “no room for the accused” to defend themselves. He also used the appearance to discuss political issues, criticizing the Trump administration and reiterating his opposition to gun violence.