Statement Regarding the Arrest of Reverend Robert L. Brennan

Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia
September 26, 2013

http://archphila.org/press%20releases/pr002244.php

Father Robert L. Brennan was removed from active ministry in September 2005 following the Grand Jury report issued by the Philadelphia District Attorney. He has not been permitted to function as a priest anywhere since that time. A canonical process aimed at his laicization is in progress with the Holy See.

His current arrest stems from an allegation of sexual abuse involving a minor reported to the Archdiocese in January 2013. The alleged wrongful conduct occurred between 12 and 15 years ago prior to his removal from ministry. The Archdiocese immediately reported the information to the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office, and cooperated fully with the subsequent investigation. Since arriving in Philadelphia, Archbishop Chaput has reinforced the Archdiocese's strong commitment to work with law enforcement in ensuring justice for victims of sexual assault. The Archdiocese reports all allegations of sexual abuse of minors to public authorities.

Father Brennan is 75 years old. He was ordained in 1964. He has served at the following parishes in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia: Saint Pius X, Broomall (1964-1970); Our Lady of Calvary, Philadelphia (1970-1974); Stella Maris, Philadelphia (1974-1981); Saint George, Glenolden (1981-1986); Chaplain, Archbishop Prendergast High School, Drexel Hill (1986); Saint Helena, Philadelphia (1986-1988); Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Yardley (1988-1989); Saint Eleanor, Collegeville (1989); Saint Mary Schwenksville (1989-1992); Leave of Absence (1992-1993); Resurrection of Our Lord (1993-2004); Chaplain, Camilla Hall (2004-2005); Ministry Restricted and faculties removed (2005).

To Make a Report

If you have information to report to the District Attorney regarding Father Brennan, please call his office at 215-686-8000.

If you would like to report an allegation of sexual abuse, contact your local law enforcement agency and/or the Archdiocesan Office of Investigations at 1-888-930-9010.

If you would like to report a violation of The Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries, please contact the Office of Investigations.

We recognize that this public notice may be painful to victims of sexual violence. If you need support or assistance, victim services are available to you through the Victim Assistance Office of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780.