From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda:
I was notified Friday, November 8 that Father Gerard Saguto, FSSP, was recalled from his assignment as pastor of the Church of All Saints in Minneapolis by his religious community, the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter. The action was taken in response to an issue that had surfaced in trauma counseling undertaken voluntarily by Father Saguto and brought by him to the attention of his Superiors. It was also taken in response to related concerns that Father Saguto had failed to observe the safe environment protocols of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis for interaction with minors (e.g. the requirement that adults not be alone with minors). Our Office of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment promptly contacted law enforcement and provided them with the information related to Father Saguto, as is our protocol. Law enforcement has advised us that they are not initiating a criminal investigation.
Given, however, that Father Saguto has been recalled, and in light of the questions that have arisen concerning violations of our protocols for interactions with minors, I have revoked his faculties to minister in the Archdiocese, meaning that he may not engage in any further priestly ministry within the Archdiocese.
In the event that a request were made in the future, the present restrictions on Father Saguto’s ministry could only be lifted after our normal review process, which would have to include a recommendation from the Ministerial Review Board of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Please keep all those involved in this situation in your prayers.
(This statement was read at Masses at the Church of All Saints the weekend of November 9-10)
