Statement Regarding the Late Fr. Czeslaw Szymanski, O.S.P.

By Kelly Lynch
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston
December 9, 2010

http://www.bostoncatholic.org/Utility/News-And-Press/Content.aspx?id=18990

[Further information: Newspaper story on the priest's death; obituary from the Lowell Sun; notice of the funeral service.]

The Archdiocese of Boston today issued the following statement relating to complaints of sexual abuse of a minor being brought against the late Fr. Czeslaw Szymanski, O.S.P:

“We are troubled and saddened any time new allegations are brought to our attention and, today, we extend our concern and prayers for the individuals and parish communities impacted by this difficult news. We have notified law enforcement of these allegations and are awaiting additional detail from the claimants.”

“The Archdiocese will work to resolve these claims against the late Fr. Czeslaw Szymanski, O.S.P in accordance with its policies. The Archdiocese has offered counseling to the individuals who have come forward and will proceed in a manner that is just and respectful of survivors’ pastoral needs.

“Fr. Szymanski was a religious order priest ordained in Poland by the Order of St. Paul the First Hermit. He was not a priest of the Boston Archdiocese, but was given an assignment in 1981 to serve as a parochial vicar (i.e., associate pastor) at Holy Trinity Parish, a parish that serves the Polish community in Lowell and vicinity. Fr. Szymanski’s assignment in the Archdiocese ended in April 1987. He died in a car accident in September 1987.

“We appreciate the courage shown by the individuals who have come forward with this important information and encourage any person with additional information to contact our Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach by calling (781) 794-2581. All calls are received with great respect and sensitivity.”

Contact: Kelly Lynch klynch@rasky.com (617) 391-9639