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Letter from Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, on the Reinstatement of Father Paul Guzman

March 21, 2023

Dear Parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Parish,

Thank you for your patience and prayers during the absence of your Associate Pastor, Father Paul Guzman. As I recently informed you, the Archdiocese received an allegation of child sexual abuse against Father Guzman dating back to a time long before he was ordained a priest. In accordance with our policies for the protection of children and youth, the Archdiocese Independent Review Board, assisted by our Office of Child Abuse Investigation and Review and outside investigators, conducted a thorough review of the allegation.

The Review Board has concluded that there is insufficient reason to suspect Father Guzman is guilty of this allegation. Having given careful consideration to their recommendation, which I accept, I now inform you that I am reinstating Father Guzman’s faculties and his position of Associate Pastor at Most Holy Redeemer Parish, effective immediately.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the great patience you and Fr. Guzman have shown in this moment of trial. Yet, Fr. Guzman is convinced of the need for us as a Church to keep our word that the safety of children remains our priority. At the same time, we must keep our commitment to do everything possible to restore Fr. Guzman’s good name. We will share this letter with our priests, asking them to provide it to their parishioners. This letter will also be sent to the media and archdiocese employees and posted on our Archdiocesan websitey.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,

Cardinal Blase Cupich