Naperville Priest Suspended in Wake of Abuse Allegations

By Lee Filas.
Daily Herald
August 30, 2012

http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20120830/news/708309773/

A Naperville priest has been suspended by the Joliet Diocese following allegations he sexually abused a child more than 25 years ago.

Rev. James Nowak, 75, who served as pastor at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church from 2002 to 2007, was placed on temporary administrative leave. He is not permitted to celebrate public Mass or administer sacraments, said diocese spokesman Doug Delaney.

Nowak is retired, and is listed as member of the board of directors at Montini High School in Lombard, according to the school’s website.

It’s unknown where Novak was working at the time of the alleged abuse.

Delaney said.

Bishop R. Daniel Conlon has determined that abuse has likely occurred, Delaney said in a news release. The matter will be forwarded to church leaders in Rome for review.

Parishioners where Nowak was assigned are being notified of the allegation.

Diocese officials have asked that anyone with information about the matter contact the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator Judith Speckman, at (815) 263-6467 and law enforcement authorities.