Capuchin Franciscans

Statement on the Public Release of the Names of Friars
with Credible Allegations of Sexual Abuse
of Minors and Vulnerable Adults

March 1, 2021

In June of 2019, The Province of the Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis completed an independent audit of our provincial files and other documents regarding the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults. Upon the recommendation of the auditors, we have made the decision to publicly release the names of current, former, and deceased friars who have allegations of sexual abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult that have been confirmed by their own admission, an investigation, litigation or what the auditors have determined to be other sufficient evidence. 

This is not a decision we make lightly. Our decision to publicly release these names is rooted in several hopes:

We hope that the release of these names might help some victims/survivors by validating their experiences and encourage them to come forward for help.

We hope that greater transparency of releasing the names of our brothers who have confirmed allegations of sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults confirms our commitment to efforts to prevent and better respond to abuse and thus aid the process of healing and restoration of trust.

We hope that releasing these names may aid in accountability and community support, and thus lower the risk of re-offending.

We express these hopes with some caution. For some, releasing these names might trigger painful experiences and memories that they had hoped to leave behind. We are also aware that it may trouble others who love, respect and have good memories of the friars who have been named. 

The Capuchin Province of the Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis takes this action to affirm our dedication to creating a safe environment for everyone in our ministries.
 

List of Friars* of the Province of The Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis
with Credible  Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors

*Friars are listed by the titles (Fr., Br.) and names by which they are/were commonly known.
This list will be reviewed and revised by the Province as necessary to ensure its accuracy.

Current Members
None

Deceased Members
(Fr.) Sylvester Catallo (2019)
(Fr.) Luke Guastella, OFM Cap. (2020)

Former Members
(Fr.) Scott Asalone
(Fr.) Robert Calabrese
(Fr.) Paul Daleo
(Fr.) Robert Yurgel

Former Members (Deceased)
(Br.) Isidore Corwin (2007)