On Nov. 1. Cardinal Cupich sent letters to St. Alexander, St. Augustine (formerly St. Christopher), St. Cletus, St. Francis Xavier, St. John of the Cross, St. Michael, St. Patricia, and St. Veronica (formerly Infant Jesus of Prague) parishes informing them of the reinstatement of Father William Killeen. “Last year, I wrote to you about Reverend William Killeen [retired]. The archdiocese had received an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor while Father Killeen was assigned to St. Patricia Parish more than 40 years ago,” the cardinal wrote. “In keeping with our child protection policies, the allegation was reported to civil authorities and the person making the allegation was offered the services of our Victim Assistance Ministry. Father Killeen cooperated with my direction to remain out of ministry while the allegation was investigated. “The archdiocese’s Independent Review Board met this week to evaluate the results of the investigation. They determined that there is not a reasonable cause to believe Father Killeen sexually abused a minor. In addition, the board recommended that Father Killeen be returned to ministry and that the file be closed. After prayerful consideration, I have accepted their recommendations and restored Father Killeen’s faculties to minister in the Archdiocese of Chicago. “The welfare of the children entrusted to our care is our paramount consideration. Consequently, we take seriously all allegations of sexual misconduct. It is to the credit of our priests that they support our child protection policies. They understand that only by applying a meticulous and impartial process to all allegations can we remain committed to our work of assisting survivors and, with the help of independent advisors, thoroughly evaluate all allegations. “At the same time, I am committed to restoring the good name of those so accused if the case is unsubstantiated. To that end, I publicly affirm that Father Killeen is a priest in good standing and express sincere appreciation for his many years of service to the People of God in the Archdiocese of Chicago. This period away from ministry has been challenging for him. He deserves our respect and gratitude and I hope you will join me in thanking him for his long-standing dedication. “In closing, I encourage anyone who believes they have been abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee to come forward. You will be received with respect and compassion. To report abuse please refer to the archdiocesan website at archchicago.org.”