Activist priest Michael Pfleger cleared of sexual abuse allegations

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Father Michael Pfleger, senior pastor of the Faith Community of Saint Sabina of Chicago, Illinois, addresses his congregation on Sunday, December 11, 2022. | Screenshot: YouTube/The Faith Community of Saint Sabina

Chicago priest Father Michael Pfleger, known for his social and political activism, was cleared of sexual abuse allegations against him earlier this year, leading to his furlough from the ministry in October.

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago announced Saturday that Pfleger, 73, has been reinstated as senior pastor of the Saint Sabina religious community.

“The review board has concluded that there is no reason to suspect Father Pfleger of being guilty of these allegations,” Cupich wrote to the St. Sabine Congregation.

“I now inform you that I am reinstating Father Pfleger as Senior Pastor of the St. Sabina Faith Community, effective immediately.”

The cardinal noted that the past few months have “weighed heavily” on the congregation and Pfleger, but assured a commitment to “do everything possible to restore his reputation.”

“I ask that this letter be read at all Masses next weekend, posted both in hard copy in the church and as an electronic copy on your parish webpage,” Cupich added.

The archdiocese furloughed Pfleger in response to allegations he sexually abused a minor more than 30 years ago. Per archdiocesan policies, the allegation against Pfleger was also reported to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and law enforcement.

Pfleger was previously accused of abuse in January 2021 by two brothers who claimed the priest abused them more than 40 years ago. But after a five-month investigation, Pfleger was cleared of any wrongdoing.

On Sunday, Pfleger oversaw mass at Sainte-Sabine, telling those gathered for worship that “it’s good to be home.” He said there is “nothing like being with the community of believers”.

During the service, Pfleger thanked the congregation for supporting him throughout the investigation.

“Thank you and apologize for the injury and pain you had to go through as well,” Pfleger said. “Thank you for being by my side and believing in me, that you know who I am.”

Pfleger, who became a national figure in 2008 for his support of Barack Obama’s presidential bid, said he received encouragement and support from people like Bernice King, Cornel West, Louis Farrakhan, Harry Belafonte, Reverend William Barber and Reverend Jeremiah. Wright.

He maintains that certain people and groups are “trying to destroy him”, adding that he has received “threats for years” and is “used to people hating me”.

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