Former Montco Archdiocesan Official Placed on Leave

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has placed the Rev. Michael Chapman, former Hispanic Ministry Coordinator for Montgomery County, back on administrative leave following allegations of sexual abuse of minors.

According to the press release, Chapman was originally placed on leave in March 2011 for an alleged violation of The Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries.

In May of 2012, as Archbishop Charles Chaput and the Office for Child and Youth Protection was working with the parish for his return, the Archdiocese received allegations of sexual abuse of minors against Chapman.

The Archdiocese immediately reported the new allegations, which allegedly occurred approximately 30 years ago, to law enforcement and delayed Chapman's return to the parish.

Chapman served as the Hispanic Ministry Coordinator for Montgomery County from 1991 - 1992.

According to the release, Chapman has served at the following parishes, all in Philadelphia, except where noted: St. Bonaventure (1982-1986),  Little Flower High School (1983-1985), St. Agnes, West Chester (1986-1990), Saint Henry (1990-1991), Priest Vocation Coordinator for the Hispanic Apostolate (1990-1994); St. Veronica (1994-1999); Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (1999-2001); Ascension of Our Lord (2001-2011).

Reports of violation of The Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries can be directed to the Archdiocesan Office for Investigations at 1-888-930-1010.

Allegations of sexual abuse can be directed to a law enforcement agency and/or the Office for Investigations at 1-888-930-1010.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Victim Assistance Office can be contacted at 1-888-8780 or philavac@adphila.org.

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