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	Archdiocese of Boston Places Rev. John M. Mendicoa on Administrative Leave Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston August 14, 2011 http://www.bostoncatholic.org/Utility/News-And-Press/Content.aspx?id=21308 (Braintree, Mass.) August 14, 2011…The Archdiocese of Boston today announced that it has placed Rev. John M. Mendicoa on administrative leave as a result of receiving an allegation of sexual abuse of a child. Fr. Mendicoa is a Parochial Vicar at Sacred Heart Parish in Roslindale. The allegation concerns conduct alleged to have occurred in the 1980s. The Archdiocese immediately notified law enforcement of the allegation and has initiated a preliminary investigation into the complaint. Fr. Mendicoa will remain on administrative leave pending the outcome of the preliminary investigation. The decision to place Fr. Mendicoa on administrative leave represents the Archdiocese’s commitment to the safety of all parties and does not represent a determination of Fr. Mendicoa’s guilt or innocence as it pertains to this allegation. The Archdiocese will work to resolve this case as expeditiously as possible and in a manner that is fair to all parties. “I recognize that news of this allegation may be a source of distress for many people,” stated Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley. “My prayers and concern are with all people who are impacted by this matter. I remain committed to doing everything possible to protect our children, while at the same time furthering the healing process and rebuilding trust.” Through its Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach, the Archdiocese continues to make counseling and other services available to survivors, their families and parishes impacted by clergy sexual abuse. Further, the Archdiocese, Central Region Bishop Robert Hennessey and Rev. Msgr. Francis Kelley, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, are making arrangements for the ongoing pastoral care of the parish community. Cardinal Sean also encouraged any person in need of pastoral assistance or support to contact the Archdiocese’s Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach by calling (781) 794-2581. About the Archdiocese of Boston’s Child Protection Efforts Since his installation, Cardinal Sean has made it a priority to create safe environments in the Archdiocese’s churches and schools and to continue to support all people impacted by clergy sexual abuse. The policies and practices of the Archdiocese include working with law enforcement agencies and community professionals to report and investigate instances of sexual abuse, annually screening approximately 60,000 clergy, employees and volunteers, and implementing effective prevention training programs. In addition, through the Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach (OPSO), the Archdiocese continues to reach out to those who have been harmed by the tragic reality of clergy sexual abuse in order to provide pastoral help and counseling services to survivors and their families.
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