Ex Main Line Priest Accused Of Sexually Abusing Minor

MAIN LINE, PA — A Catholic priest who served on the Main Line in the 1990s has been placed on leave by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia after claims that he sexually abused a minor.

The Rev. Steven J. Marinucci has denied the allegations against him, which are said to have happened in the late 1970s. The claims surfaced in late January and Marinucci was placed on leave and his priestly faculties were restricted last week, according to the archdiocese.

Marinucci, 71, served at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood from 1990 to 2000.

Otherwise, he has mostly served at churches, schools and offices in Philadelphia, most recently Saint Matthew Parish in northeast Philadelphia, where he has served since 2010. He was ordained in 1974.

The archdiocese said in a written statement that the sexual-abuse claim against Marinucci is the first that has been lodged against him. The matter has been referred to law enforcement and the archdiocese will cooperate with authorities as they investigate, the statement said.

A church investigation will be launched after law enforcement's investigation is completed, the archdiocese said.

While on administrative leave, Marinucci will not be able to exercise his ministry publicly, present himself publicly as a priest, or be present in any parishes or schools.

News of the claims against Marinucci were shared with Saint Matthew parishioners at all masses over the weekend and counselors were made available to them.

The archdiocese invites anyone who needs support in the wake of the allegations to contact its Victim Assistance Program at 1-888-800-8780 or philavac@archphila.org.

If you would like to report an allegation of sexual abuse or any other criminal activity perpetrated by a priest, deacon, employee, or volunteer of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, you may contact your local law enforcement agency and/or the Archdiocesan Office of Investigations at 1-888-930-9010.

Story by Kara Seymour

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