July 25, 2009 - Archdiocese Suspends Faculties of Rev. Pedro Jose Damazio, a Priest from Brazil

(Braintree, Mass.) July 25, 2009…The Archdiocese of Boston today announced that the faculties of Rev. Pedro Jose Damazio have been suspended as a result of receiving allegations of adult sexual misconduct.  Fr. Damazio is a priest of the Diocese of Tubarão in Santa Catarina, Brazil.  He has been serving as parochial vicar of St. Anthony of Padua in Cambridge and has also served the Brazilian community throughout the Archdiocese of Boston.       

The Archdiocese is cooperating fully with law enforcement’s investigation into this matter.  Further, the Archdiocese has notified Fr. Damazio’s home diocese in Brazil of these allegations.      

 

In suspending his faculties, the Archdiocese has prohibited Fr. Damazio from performing any public ministry within the Archdiocese of Boston.  These restrictions will remain in place pending the outcome of the investigation.  The decision to suspend Fr. Damazio’s faculties represents the Archdiocese’s commitment to the safety of all parties and does not represent a determination of Fr. Damazio’s guilt or innocence as it pertains to these allegations.     

 

The Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach, an office of the Archdiocese dedicated to making counseling and other support services available to persons impacted by clergy sexual abuse, stands ready to assist any individual affected by this news.  The Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach can be reached toll free at (866) 244-9603.  Members of the Brazilian community wishing to speak with a Portuguese-speaking counselor are encouraged to dial extension #13.