Fr. Joseph M. Pease

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Harrisburg PA

Accused in 1995 of the sexual abuse of a minor in about 1972. Kept in ministry. Removed in 12/02 due to a credible accusation and his admission of having sexually abused an adolescent 30 years prior. Two other men then came forward to allege abuse by Pease. The Vatican had not yet ruled on his case as of 2007. Bishop Gainer asked Vatican to impose a ‘life of prayer and penance.’ Pease’s name included on the diocese’s list released 8/1/18. Included in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Abused throughout his career, at 10 parishes. Gainer decided to request laicization for Pease in light of the GJ report.

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