YOUNGSTOWN (OH)
WKBN-TV, Ch. 27 [Youngstown OH]
September 19, 2024
By Laurel Stone
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — An independent review board has found Reverend Michael Swierz “unsuitable” for ministry, according to a Thursday release from the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown.
Earlier in the year, the Diocese announced Swierz was placed on administrative leave pending an investigation referencing an incident that occurred in the 1980s during his time at Saint Rose Parish in Girard. Swierz then resigned in June.
Following the Diocese’s investigation, the findings were presented to an independent review board, whose task was to review the information and to present to Bishop David Bonnar a recommendation concerning suitability for ministry of Father Swierz.
The Independent Review Board is comprised of mostly lay people, with one experienced and
respected pastor of the Diocese, according to the release. Board members have expertise in the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults, the release adds.
The board determined the information shared showed “a disturbing pattern of behavior, including serious boundary violations with minors, manipulation and abuse of power.”
It unanimously agreed in its recommendation to Bishop Bonnar that Father Swierz is “unsuitable for ministry, and, therefore, should not be allowed to return to active ministry.”
The release states Swierz was informed of the board’s recommendation.
“It is imperative in this difficult and painful moment that we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and
behold his presence, for we believe that he is the way, the truth and life,” said Bishop David Bonnar.
The case must now be forwarded to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, a department of the Roman Curia in charge of religious discipline of the Catholic Church.