Archdiocese reinstates Father David Ryan

On Nov. 20, Cardinal Cupich sent a letter to parishioners of St. Francis de Sales in Lake Zurich announcing the reinstatement of their pastor, Father David Ryan.

“In September, I informed you that additional information on an allegation against your pastor, Father David Ryan, which was not previously provided to the Archdiocese or the Independent Review Board, had surfaced. As a result, Father David Ryan once again stepped aside from the parish and has fully cooperated while this matter was thoroughly investigated,” Cardinal Cupich wrote. Ryan was first removed for an allegation in November 2020 and for a second on in September.

“Today, our Independent Review Board met to consider and discuss the information that had been provided by the independent investigation. They reached the judgment that that there is insufficient reason to suspect Father Ryan had committed sexual abuse of a minor. I have decided to accept that judgment and reinstate him as your pastor immediately,” the cardinal wrote.

“We take every allegation of sexual abuse seriously, for only by conducting a rigorous and impartial investigation can we fulfill our duty to protect the young people in our care. A thorough investigation also serves the priest accused, for, as in this case, if the Independent Review Board determines there is insufficient reason to suspect abuse of a minor, I can reinstate him with confidence,” the letter said.