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	'When the Abuser Is a Priest, the Whole Church Is Affected' Statement from the Archdiocese of Chicago on the Guilty Plea Today of Rev. Daniel McCormack Chicago Tribune July 2, 2007 http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-070702mccormack-archdiocese,1,5220250.story?coll=chi-news-hed&ctrack=3&cset=true We have been informed that Fr. Daniel McCormack has pled guilty to criminal charges that he sexually abused children. This action follows a yearlong criminal investigation by the Chicago Police Department and the Cook County State's Attorney. We are grateful that public authorities have acted to bring the matter to justice. Fr. McCormack was withdrawn from ministry in January 2006. The Archdiocese cooperated with the criminal investigation from its outset. Now that the case is concluded, Cardinal George has instructed his staff to institute proceedings under church law to seek Fr. McCormack's separation from the ordained priesthood. Commenting on today's court proceeding Cardinal George said, "The sexual abuse of children is a sin and a crime. When the abuser is a priest, the whole church is affected. Such misconduct by a priest or anyone else associated with the Archdiocese cannot be tolerated." Chancellor Jimmy Lago, who is directing the Archdiocese's efforts to safeguard children, said, "In the months since we learned of this case, we have evaluated our processes and undertaken new initiatives to safeguard children. Sexual abuse exists throughout our society and we know that. When it involves a betrayal of religious trust however, it is especially horrific. Because we are a church, we understand we have a particular call to promote a safe environment for children."
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