Chicago priest removed from parish amid child molestation claims
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A priest has been removed as the associate pastor of a Catholic school and church in Lincoln Park, amid an investigation into allegations of child exploitation and child molestation.
Cardinal Blase Cupich sent a letter to St. Josaphat Parish and School at Southport and Belden avenues, informing the parish that he asked Fr. Martin Nyberg to step aside from his duties after the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services opened an investigation into the allegations against him, involving a "public penance service," or a confession service.
CBS News Chicago has confirmed the school met with a group of parents Thursday about an eighth-grade confirmation retreat that took place in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, two weeks ago. Parents shared that multiple students said they were asked inappropriate sexual questions at the aforementioned confession service during the two-day overnight retreat.
The questions that students felt were inappropriate appeared on a confession worksheet. They included: "Have I been sexually pure?" and "Have I looked at pornography, engaged in masturbation, or sexual behaviors with another person?"
Several students later reported that they were also touched inappropriately by Nyberg.
According to a letter sent to parishioners at St. Josaphat, DCFS has opened an investigation into allegations they described as "child exploitation" and "child molestation."
"Father Nyberg, who has served your parish as associate pastor from July 1, 2024, strenuously denies the allegations," Cupich wrote. "In keeping with our policies, we reported the allegations to civil authorities and offered assistance to the accusers. I asked Father Nyberg to step aside from ministry until civil authorities have completed their investigations and our Independent Review Board has presented its recommendations to me."
Cupich said Nyberg is cooperating with the investigation.
According to the parish website, Nyberg, 28, was assigned to St. Josaphat on July 1.
Nyberg was ordained as a priest just this past May, and was photographed with Cardinal Cupich for the occasion.
Nyberg also served as a deacon at St. Paul of the Cross Parish and School in Park Ridge from June 1, 2023, until May 17, 2024, and Cupich sent a letter to members of that parish informing them of the allegations against Nyberg.
"We appreciate your understanding that only with an impartial and thorough effort can we fulfill our duty to protect the young people in our care and, if the investigation warrants, restore the good name of the person so accused. We will provide you with more information on the investigation as it becomes available.
Cupich urged anyone who believes they have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, or other church employee to come forward.
Information about reporting sexual abuse can be found on the Archdiocese website at protect.archchicago.org.
When asked for an interview, the Archdiocese of Chicago said they would not be commenting beyond the letters issued by Cupich. A spokesperson said they will report on the outcome of the investigation into Nyberg's conduct once it is complete.
