Fr. John W. Wellinger

Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Died: 04/21/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Sent to St. Luke’s in MD 2/1986 for issues including substance abuse. In 10/1987 gave drugs and alcohol to an 18-year-old parishioner, who was hospitalized as a result. Concerns in 1989 from parishioner about his giving teens alcohol and drugs, and young men staying at the parish house. Sent to St. Michael’s in St. Louis MO in 1991 after trying to perform oral sex on a 24-year-old man without consent. Sent to St. Luke’s 9/29/1994-3/27/1995. Personal leave 6/1995. A few months later a young man alleged Wellinger sexually abused him at age 11 in 1989, then another report of abuse of a 13-year-old boy in 6/1991. In 3/2003 the diocese said Wellinger was “withdrawn from ministry.” Suit filed in 2004. Claims included in Diocese’s 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Died in 2011. Report in 9/2012 of abuse of 11- or 12-year-old altar boy in 1981 or 1982. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused.

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