Ex Philadelphia Priest Accused Of Sexually Abusing Minor

PHILADELPHIA — A Catholic priest who has served in and around Philadelphia since the 1970s 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.

He has mostly served at churches, schools and offices in Philadelphia.

Marinucci, 71, served at the following Philadelphia churches and schools:

• Saint Bernard, Philadelphia (1974-1978); Saint Hubert Catholic High School for Girls, Philadelphia (1975-1979);
• Saint Bartholomew, Philadelphia (1978-1983);
• Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls (1980-1983);
• Saint Clement, Philadelphia (2000-2001);
• Saint Agatha/Saint James, Philadelphia (2001-2010);
• Saint Matthew, Philadelphia (2010-2019).

He also served at churches in Wynnewood in the 1900s and Bensalem and Morrisville in the 1980s.

Marinucci 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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