From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda
Joseph Gallatin was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis in 1997. In 1998, the Archdiocese received an allegation that he had inappropriate physical contact with a minor. The matter was considered by three Archdiocesan Review Boards, in 1998, 2002 and 2014. Each Board concluded that there was not sufficient evidence to support a finding of sexual abuse of a minor. The 2014 Board recommended that he be permitted to engage in limited ministry. His ministry was restricted accordingly.
After the 2014 Review Board’s recommendation, additional information regarding the 1998 incident was presented to the Archdiocese and, in accordance with Archdiocesan policy, he was prohibited again from engaging in any public ministry. After reviewing the matter in 2015, the Ministerial Review Board concluded there was a credible allegation of sexual abuse of a minor. The Review Board’s finding was supported by Tim O’Malley, Director of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment. Those findings and all information pertaining to the matter were then referred to Rome for adjudication in accordance with canon law. A three-judge tribunal heard the case, considered the evidence, and upheld the charges. The next step in the canonical process afforded Joseph Gallatin the opportunity to appeal the tribunal’s decision. He elected to renounce his right to appeal and, instead, tendered a petition to Pope Francis for a dispensation from the obligations of the clerical state, commonly referred to as a “request for laicization.” His petition to the Pope resulted in cessation of any further canonical processes. Throughout these processes, Joseph Gallatin has firmly denied the allegation.
I have recently been informed that the Holy Father granted the request. That means that the canonical status of Joseph Gallatin, who has not exercised public ministry since 2014, is that of a lay person. He will no longer serve as a priest of the Archdiocese. I am hopeful that Pope Francis’ decision may alleviate some of the pain and prove beneficial for all involved.
Please join me in offering prayers for those who are affected by sexual abuse, especially young people and the most vulnerable among us.
