Chicago, Ill., Mar 19, 2018 / 17:00 pm
The pastor of Chicago's St. John Cantius Church was removed from office last week for unspecified "credible" allegations of misconduct involving adult men, a response the Chicago archdiocese says is typical in such cases.
Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago removed Father C. Frank Phillips, founder of the Canons Regular of St. John Cantius and pastor of Chicago's St. John Cantius Church.
"I am aware that this is difficult news to receive, but the Archdiocese of Chicago is committed to ensuring those serving our parishioners are fit for ministry," the cardinal said in a statement. "Know that this decision was made after careful consideration. I will continue to pray for you and am confident the Lord will sustain the St. John Cantius community as you make this transition."
Cardinal Cupich said he had to withdraw the priest's faculties to minister in the archdiocese "after learning of credible allegations of improper conduct involving adult men."
Susan Thomas, communications director for the Archdiocese of Chicago, told CNA that the priest is not accused of a canonical crime, known as a "delict," and to the archdiocese's knowledge he is not being investigated for a civil crime.
The archdiocese has referred the matter to Fr. Gene Szarek, C.R., the provincial superior of the Resurrectionists, to deal with the allegations and to decide on any further action. Phillips, though the founder of the Canons Regular, is canonically a member of the Resurrectionists.
Phillips' attorney, Steve Komie of Komie and Associates, told CNA that he has been informed that the Resurrectionist provincial has directed a review board to review the priest's situation.
"Father Philips has asked me to say that he's looking forward to the convocation of the board under the decree of the provincial and he's looking forward to appearing in front of the board, and he's looking forward to have the board work its way through the claims being currently made," Komie said.
"He looks forward to the report and in the meantime he's praying for the peace and reconciliation of all involved."
"That's the extent of his statement, because at this time under the rules he is not allowed to comment further," said the attorney.