Fr. John A. Close

Ordained: 1969
Status: Settled

Died: 03/6/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Monsignor. One of 21 priests placed on leave by archdiocese 3/7/2011 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last served as pastor at St. Katharine of Siena in Wayne. In 1998, a man who was in prison for murder accused Close of abusing him as a boy on several occasions in 1969-1970. No action. Close denied the allegations. In 4/2011, another man claimed abuse in 1992-1994. Found suitable for ministry 7/6/2012 after the Review Board determined misconduct claims against him were unsubstantiated. Died 3/6/2018. In 8/2023 the Archdiocese agreed to a $3.5M settlement with a man, age 30, who claimed Close sexually assaulted him at age 14 in 2006. The man said the rape occurred during confession at St. Katherine’s of Sienna, and that Close threatened him with eternal damnation if he told.

Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.

Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.